It’s a fact well known that women are not safe in this country. We hear upsetting news about women being assaulted, raped, molested almost every single day. Now, thanks to the #MeToo Movement, more and more women are stepping forward and speaking out about the injustice being done to them.
However, whenever crimes against women are discussed, somehow the topic of acid attack survivors is always spurned. Yes, Deepika’s critically acclaimed movie, Chhapaak, does bring this overpassed topic to light, but we still have a long way to go as a society to bring justice to and accept these women.
The life of an acid attack survivor is not easy. In just a matter of a few seconds, their life is forever changed: their appearance, the trauma they face and not to mention the behaviour of people around them. Most of them lose confidence and don’t know what to do with their life anymore, as people tend to look at them as ‘deformed’. People don’t go near them or hire them.
However, all hope is not lost! A new cafe in Varanasi, The Orange Cafe, is being been run by survivors of acid attack, creating a wonderful opportunity for them to be strong and financially independent. Situated in the Durga Kund Area, the promising cafe is definitely a step in the right direction.
“We are starting The Orange Cafe from a rented place, but we soon plan to get ownership of the place. Our aim is to make sure that the acid attack survivors own the café and run it themselves” said Ajay Kumar Patel, who is the superhero behind this amazing initiative. He is also known for his NGO, Red Brigade, that trains women in self-defence.
According to a leading newspaper, Ajay has been traveling all across Uttar Pradesh in search of acid attack victims and has shortlisted four brave women as of now, who shall be working in the café. Currently, they are being trained in various vocations such as cooking, customer service, and billing.
This is not the first time a cafe is being run by the brave souls. Sheroes Hangout cafe, which has outlets in Lucknow and Agra, are also run by the acid attack survivors.
Well, we are so glad that these women are getting the agency to become financially independent. More power to them!
Featured Image: India.com
