Jahangir Sofi
Srinagar, Nov 29: Twelve years ago, in January 2013, Rukaya’s life took a horrific turn. On her way to teach students at a Srinagar school, she became the victim of an acid attack, an act of violence that left her not only with the physical scars but also emotional wounds.
Speaking to the media men during a presser organised by the Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in Srinagar, Rukiya, said the road to recovery was gruelling. “Initially, the prognosis seemed bleak, with many doubting my chances of ever regaining a semblance of normalcy. People used to stay I won’t. My mother’s support gave me hope and the same hope turned into my strength.”
She said that her turning point came when her case gained media attention, propelling 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 physician and plastic surgeon expert, who not only treated me but sparked hope in me,” Rukaya said.
Praising the doctors for infusing a new life in her, she said that he and his team fought for her recovery as if it were their own battle.
According to the Dr. Shahin Nooreyezdan treating Rukiya, over the years, he said she underwent more than 20 laser surgeries, with each procedure a new step toward rebuilding her face and her confidence.
She said that the emotional toll on her and her family was immense. “My mother even told me they would sell our home to fund my treatment,” she shared, her voice heavy with emotion.
Dr. Shahin Nooreyezdan, speaking about the challenges of treating acid attack survivors, stated the emotional connection was required between doctors, patients, and their families.
“This is not normal burn treatment,” he said. “It is a stressful and deeply emotional process that involves a huge team effort. Our first priority was to save her life and then focus on her recovery.”
Rukaya’s resilience is now an inspiration to others. Today, she works in a government job, where her presence has become indispensable.
Initially hesitant to join, she eventually integrated herself so well that her colleagues cannot imagine her absence. “I have gained strength from the last 12 years,” she said. “Now, I advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.”
She said she suffered huge financial burdens, stating that her treatment drained the family’s resources, but the unwavering support from her mother and the dedication of doctors like Dr. Shahin Nooreyezdan and Dr. Sameer Koul, the prominent Oncologist at Apollo Hospital, made her recovery possible.
Speaking to the reporters, Dr. Sameer praised Rukaya’s courage and the resilience of her family. “She has shown exemplary strength,” he said. “I salute her and her family for standing strong in the face of such adversity.”
Speaking about the rising domestic violence cases, Rukaya said she wants to become a voice for the voiceless and that those victims of domestic violence should come forward to speak and raise their voices against injustice or domestic violence endured upon them.
