Turning Tragedy Into Triumph: Inspiring Journey Of Rupa, An Acid Attack Survivor

We are in the 21st century and technology and the internet have taken over the world but society’s perspective on women remains unchanged. This is a major reason why the number of crimes against women is increasing across the world. From domestic violence to acid attacks, heinous crimes are taking place against women. We got an opportunity to interview Rupa, an acid attack survivor whose story shivers down our spine.

It All Happened In 2008

Rupa’s life was never easy. She lost her mother at a tender age and her father remarried. She was compelled to live with her stepmother in Muzaffarpur but her stepmother was no less than a devil in her life. She exempted Rupa from studies and forced her to do household work. One unfortunate day Rupa’s stepmother subjected her to severe physical abuse, resulting in grave injuries. This incident left her apprehensive about her future and her fear materialised when her stepmother viciously attacked her with acid that caused severe disfigurement to her face. The ordeal didn’t end there, as her stepmother attempted to poison her when Rupa was admitted to the Muzaffarnagar hospital, Although the attempt was unsuccessful . Later, Rupa was transferred to Safdarjung Hospital for further treatment.

Unfinished Education

Rupa couldn’t complete her education after class eighth. She underwent multiple treatments and surgeries after the acid attack that refrained her from completing her education. “If I had received education, I would have done something good for my country. Yet I am doing social work which makes people proud of me”, Rupa says.

Chhanv Foundation’s Lasting Support System

During her treatment at Safdarjung hospital, she met another acid attack survivor. She told Rupa about the Chao Foundation which works for acid attack survivors. Rupa contacted the NGO in 2013 where she met the founder Alok Dixit. In her conversation, she mentioned that Alok has supported and encouraged her in her hard times.

How Chhanv Foundation Is Supporting The Acid Attack Survivors?

Initially, Rupa believed she was the only acid attack survivor. However, in 2013 when she connected with the Chhanv Foundation, she learned about other survivors as well. She decided to support these survivors by providing them with medical aid and essential living items. During the lockdown, Chhanv foundation volunteers distributed essential items to these girls that earned the ‘Ideal Savior Award’ to the organisation.

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Rupa’s Courage Has Changed People’s Mindset

Before joining the Chhanv foundation people used to comment on Rupa’s character but after joining this foundation (story of piyalee gosh), she witnessed a drastic change in people's opinion about her. Rupa states that she has experienced changes in herself and people’s mindset towards her. Now people inform us immediately wherever acid attack incidents happen, so that we can help them.

Working In Sheroes Cafe

Chhanv Foundation started Sheroes cafe in 2014 whose first outlet was opened in Agra. After a successful stint, we opened outlets in Lucknow and Noida. “I work in a Noida cafe these days”, Rupa stated. “We have more than 35 acid attack survivor girls working in Noida cafe and these girls are supporting their families and funding their education as well,” she added.

Even today, acid attack survivors are ill-treated by their families and society. Rupa is trying to break the stereotypes and help these girls become independent.

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