Delhi Elections 2015: Stopping acid attack features as a prominent poll promise in Seemapuri

NEW DELHI: Promises of development and cheaper water and electricity are election staples, but in Seemapuri, northeast Delhi, candidates hope to clinch the seat by vowing to end acid attacks. "In this part of the capital, women do not step out much as acid attacks are a real threat," says Raj Kumari, a resident. She adds that crime is rampant and many cases are not reported.

The Supreme Court had banned over-the-counter sale of acid but attacks continue. Candidates are promising to implement the court order with CCTV surveillance in every lane.

At an election rally, BJP candidate Karam Vir Chandel had promised to wipe out the threat. "Women have come to us and complained about acid attack threats. The Seemapuri area is very unsafe for women and crime against women runs high here. For my constituency, women's safety is the main issue," he said.

In August, two men threw acid on a 25-year-old woman when she intervened while they were arguing with her uncle in the Nand Nagri area. "After the incident, women have been very scared and something has to be done. All parties talk about women's safety and list it in their agendas, but nothing changes on the ground. The culprits get away as there is no fear of law," said Sarita, a resident of Nand Nagri.

Women's safety is an important issue in these elections. BJP's chief ministerial candidate Kiran Bedi has made it her top priority and both Aam Aadmi Party and Congress have it in their manifestos.

"Girls are harassed on the way to school and if they resist, they are threatened. They are warned that if they file a complaint with police, their faces will be disfigured," said Najma, a resident of New Seemapuri.

Aam Aadmi Party candidate Rajender Pal Gautam also speaks on the issue in his public meetings.

"Women's safety is our main issue in this constituency. Women have asked how the party can ensure their safety. We have promised them that the Supreme Court order (on acid attacks) will be implemented and CCTV cameras will be installed in colonies," he said.