Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Nov 30: After undergoing nearly 20 surgeries and enduring years of emotional pain, Rukiya, the victim of an acid attack in Srinagar, has become a symbol of strength and resilience for those affected by hate crimes.
In January 2013, Rukiya’s life was turned upside down when she was attacked with acid while on her way to teach at a school in Srinagar. What followed was years of both emotional and physical torment inflicted by this brutal and unwarranted act of violence.
Speaking at a press conference organized by Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in Srinagar, Rukiya shared the grueling journey to recovery. “Initially, the prognosis seemed bleak, with many doubting my chances of ever regaining a semblance of normalcy. People said I wouldn’t recover. My mother’s support gave me hope, and that hope became my strength,” she said.
Her turning point came when her case gained media attention, leading her to Delhi, where a new chapter in her journey began. “In Delhi, I met Dr. Shahin Nooreyezdan at Apollo Hospital, a compassionate and skilled plastic surgeon, who not only treated me but reignited hope within me,” Rukiya explained.
She praised the doctors who infused new life into her. “Dr. Nooreyezdan and his team fought for my recovery as if it were their own battle,” she said.
Dr. Shahin Nooreyezdan, who treated Rukiya, said she underwent more than 20 laser surgeries over the years, each procedure bringing her one step closer to rebuilding her face and confidence.
The emotional toll on Rukiya and her family was immense. “My mother even said they would sell our home to fund my treatment,” she recalled, her voice heavy with emotion.
Dr. Nooreyezdan highlighted the challenges of treating acid attack survivors, noting the emotional connection required between doctors, patients, and their families. “This is not typical burn treatment. It is a deeply emotional process that demands a team effort. Our first priority was to save her life, then focus on her recovery.”
Rukiya’s resilience now serves as an inspiration. Today, she works in a government job, where her presence has become indispensable.
Though initially hesitant to join, she has now integrated so well into the workplace that her colleagues cannot imagine her absence. “I have gained strength from the last 12 years. Now, I advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves,” she said.
Rukiya also spoke about the financial burden of her treatment, which drained her family’s resources. However, the unwavering support from her mother and the dedication of doctors like Dr. Nooreyezdan and Dr. Sameer Koul, a prominent oncologist at Apollo Hospital, made her recovery possible.
Dr. Sameer Koul praised Rukiya’s courage and the resilience of her family. “She has shown exemplary strength. I salute her and her family for standing strong in the face of such adversity.”
Addressing the rising cases of domestic violence, Rukiya urged victims to speak up. “I want to be a voice for the voiceless,” she said. She encouraged victims of domestic violence to raise their voices against injustice and speak out against the abuse they endure.