With 310 acid attack cases reported in 2014, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the government is developing software to help regulate the sale of acid. “Model rules to regulate sale of acid have been framed by all states. This is regularly monitored through our ministry. If any state has not done so, we will again send an advisory… We are developing a software in connection with regulation of acid sales; it is under process,” Rajnath Singh said during question hour. Of the 310 acid attacks reported nationwide last year, 186 were in Uttar Pradesh alone. This was followed by Madhya Pradesh with 53 cases and Delhi with 27 cases. A total 208 persons were arrested across the country in acid attack cases. Rajnath also said the NDA government does not endorse any comment or action that encourages discrimination on lines of caste, creed or religion. This came in connection with an article in Saamna, the mouthpiece of the Shiv Sena, where Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut had written suggesting that Muslims be stripped of voting rights. Pressed for a response to this, Rajnath said, “Our Constitution gives equality for all irrespective of caste, creed and religion. If somebody gives a statement… which talks about discriminating against people on grounds of caste, religion or race, I think our government in no way can endorse such comments.” Rajnath remained silent, however, on the opposition’s demand that criminal action be taken against Saamna and the author.
