Police in Agra are searching for a man who fled after throwing acid on the face of a woman he has been constantly harassing for over a year.
Police said Bhola (42), who is suspected to be involved in a gambling racket, attacked Jyoti Verma (32) of Mohanpura area in a dispute over money. Jyoti, whose husband died a year ago, has a 10-year old daughter and earns a living by stitching clothes.
“A case has been registered under section 326(A) of IPC(acid attack) against accused Bhola and a search is on to arrest the accused who is absconding,” said the incharge of Rakabganj police station.
Jyoti said she had in the past repeatedly complained to the police against Bhola and even submitted a petition with the then senior superintendent of police of Agra.
The attack took place on Monday afternoon on a road near the district magistrate’s residence while Jyoti was on her way to visit her sister.
“I was taken aback by the attack. Some people standing near a shop poured water on my face because it was very painful,” she said.
She was rushed to the emergency ward of a nearby hospital and given treatment. Police then raided Bhola’s house, but he was absconding.
“Bhola, from Idgah locality, was known to my husband and often visited the house. After my husband’s death in 2014, I asked him not to come to my house but he harassed me whenever I moved out,” Jyoti said.
{{/usCountry}}“Bhola, from Idgah locality, was known to my husband and often visited the house. After my husband’s death in 2014, I asked him not to come to my house but he harassed me whenever I moved out,” Jyoti said.
{{/usCountry}}She said the harassment continued over the last one year as there was no action from the police against Bhola.
Member of State Women’s Commission, Roli Tiwari Mishra, visited Jyoti in hospital and assured all help.
“I have asked the police to submit a report within 24 hours about the incident and the action taken. All assistance and security will be provided to Jyoti,” said Mishra.