Chhapaak (2020) Movie Script
1
We want justice! We want justice!
Public anger is on the rise
following the brutal rape
of a medical student on 16th December.
People across ages have taken to the
streets of the capital city
demanding the strictest punishment
to the perpetrators arrested
by the Delhi Police.
From my heart to your heart,
Raging through me and you
No matter who ignites it,
This fire must be kept alive!
It's probably the first time
that Delhi has seen
such an emotionally charged
public protest.
The crowds are undeterred by the
presence of security forces.
Their rage and resolve
continues to grow.
We want justice, hang them!
Beat us a hundred times, we'll still
turn up in thousands and not turn back.
No... Don't touch it, Uncle!
It's expensive!
Please understand, Uncle.
Alka...
I'm sorry Sir, we can't
cover you right now.
- Please step aside.
- Come this way, Uncle.
Amol Dwivedi?
Yes.
Amol, we were at the editing
workshop together.
In the journalism course.
Right. How are you?
I've been following your campaign...
You're doing great work.
Well, acid attacks don't
get noticed like rape does.
But Uncle just doesn't get it!
Malti's Petition has brought a lot
of attention to acid attacks, right?
Where is Malti? Is she here?
Why so negative, Amol?
Everything begins with
the first step, right?
I'll track down Malti.
Stick around, results will follow.
Let's go.
Sticking around will get us killed.
We must leave now. Come.
Cynical as always?
Come, let's go!
Make sure you buy tickets.
How many of us?
- Eleven.
- Eleven.
All routes must be diverted today?
Yes, there's a blockade all the way
from Red Fort to India Gate.
They had it coming.
This government should fall.
It just might if the girl dies...
Why punish the ones who are alive?
Madam, I can barely recall the
salesgirl from last month...
You're asking me about 8 years ago!
That salesgirl was attacked
with acid, Uncle...
Right outside the market.
Her name was Malti.
How can you say you don't remember?
I'm sure you have some contact of hers.
Check your records please!
They lived in the servant quarters
of Bungalow number 35.
Manohar Lal passed away
about 4-5 months ago.
They moved away after that.
I already told you over the phone,
she doesn't want to speak to the media.
They have been through enough already.
Ma'am believe me, I'm
an ethical journalist.
I won't misuse her contact.
Shyamlal!
Ma'am, after the Nirbhaya case
it's become even more crucial
to bring Malti's story to people.
You have a steady hand.
With 5-10 days practice, you'll be set.
Can you do manicures?
Yes.
It's so tough to win clients'
confidence these days.
There's so much competition!
This girl who worked for me opened
her own parlour last month. Imagine!
The problem is, Malti...
People expect beauty
at a beauty parlour.
Excuse me.
Why did you quit studies
after high school?
Thank you.
- Sir, can I get you something?
- No, not now.
You didn't mention in the application
about your... you know...
There's no category
for Acid survivors, Sir.
Had there been, I would
have mentioned it.
Have you tried applying
for jobs at restaurants?
They have vacancies
for disabled people now!
- Good morning ma'am.
- Two aloo tikki burgers please.
They've taken Rohit for a test again.
The doctor says I need
to get checked for TB too.
If not me, at least
listen to the doctor.
If you stay here day and night,
you're bound to fall ill.
Papa would have never
allowed Rohit to stay here.
It's not that bad.
If your father was around, we
wouldn't even have managed this.
- He'd drink away all our money.
- Don't start now, Mummy.
Shiraz Aunty!
Why don't you call back, Malti?
I was going to, Shiraz Aunty.
I've come to the hospital with food.
I told you we should shift
Rohit to a better hospital.
You've already done
so much, Shiraz Aunty.
This hospital isn't all that bad.
I know how bad it is.
Okay, listen...
There is this journalist - Alka.
She wants to meet you.
She's been after me for weeks.
Will you meet her?
Brother...
Shiraz Aunty, I'll call you back.
Here, I'll do it.
This doesn't hurt anymore.
The Justice Verma Committee
submitted its report last month.
It takes a hard look at
violence against women.
Do you feel it will draw attention
to the issue of acid attacks?
It would be great if it does.
The Verma Committee proposes
a separate section of law
for acid attacks.
And for punishment to be increased.
Isn't this a big victory?
It would be, if the law is passed.
Alka ma'am, can I get
a job at your office?
I can work on computers.
Work as a receptionist,
attend calls, answer emails...
Yeah sure...
I'll go to the office and find out.
Okay.
So, Malti...
Your Petition demands a ban
on the sale of acid.
You took this important step...
And it's been 7 years since.
Nothing has moved.
Acid is still sold freely.
Can we stop now?
I have a job interview.
- Sure.
- Thank you.
Have you heard of
'Stop Acid Violence'?
No.
There's this man called Amol Dwivedi.
- You should meet him.
- Will he give me a job?
Not sure about a job...
but a lecture, definitely!
Alka said you run an NGO.
Can I get a job there?
Who Alka?
She's a reporter with AajTak.
- Your friend...
- Right.
What kind of work can you do?
Office work.
Will you be able to
manage an NGO's work?
Yes.
Look, we work to help Acid Survivors
and this kind of work
requires a certain ethos.
Only a sensitive person
can handle this job.
Believe me, some people get alarmed
just looking at their faces.
Actually...
And the salary won't be much either.
You'd be better off
working at a call center!
- Mr. Amol, can you hear me out...
- What do you do currently, by the way?
Hello?
Nothing. I have to go
to court off and on...
So I had to quit my job.
Court? Why?
There's an old Petition of mine.
What Petition?
To ban Acid.
Petition... Malti?
Yes.
I'm so sorry!
Please come.
Let's meet in the office.
From providing moral support
to making them self-reliant
our organization Chhaaya
supports acid-attack victims
in every way possible.
Yes... This campaign needs support.
It needs funds.
It needs good people like you.
Our Vice-president Manish Kumar
will explain the entire process to you.
Yes, it's all fully transparent.
All details are available online.
Okay... job done!
Is there no interview?
Consider it done.
You tell us when you can join.
Today?
You can put today's date
on the joining letter.
I'm applying for a personal loan.
I'll need it for documentation.
Joining letter.
- I'll be back.
- Okay.
Thank you.
You took us on quite a ride!
We've been looking
for you for a while.
Chhaaya needs you.
What would my salary be?
Look, consider yourself a founder...
not an employee.
You've come to the right place.
Now just dive right in!
Shall we?
Yes.
They're back from the hospital.
They found accommodation close-by.
Thank God... they can't make her
travel in this grueling heat.
Yes, we've fixed a call-time of 4 pm.
Enough.
Just a little more.
There're only two spoons left.
Chhaaya has managed
to collect 25000 rupees.
We'll deposit the advance at
the hospital tomorrow morning.
The operation won't be
delayed. Don't worry.
Ready?
Her exams were round the corner.
She left for her math tuition at 4 am.
She must have barely reached the turn
when we heard her scream.
She came running, covering her face...
"Baba! Someone threw hot water on me!"
Her skin was blue and blistering.
We instantly realized...
this wasn't hot water.
But why did he do this?
He was her classmate.
He'd try to mingle with her.
She didn't pay any attention to him.
God knows what went through his mind.
He just splashed her with
acid... To punish her!
A smile defaced
Wiped out of sight
In the sprinkle of a spark
In a splash, all erased...
The face fades
Like a fallen pawn
Like light smothered by the dark
In a splash, all erased...
Neither love, nor longing
No promises to be kept
Neither love, nor longing
No promises to be kept
A handful of darkness
The eyes are intent
A smile defaced
Wiped out of sight
In the sprinkle of a spark
In a splash, all erased...
The face fades
Like a fallen pawn
Like light smothered by the dark
In a splash, all erased...
A meaningless fetish
Raging smoke without fire
A meaningless fetish
Raging smoke without fire
The mind is delirious
The thoughts are dire
A smile defaced
Wiped out of sight
In the sprinkle of a spark
In a splash, all erased...
All is scorched...
Everything is erased...
What happened, dear?
How did this happen?
Please keep your distance.
She is prone to infection.
- Tell me, child...
- Sir, please.
Ask her who threw the acid.
Please, you have to stop this.
Look at her!
She is not ready for any statement.
Please make him understand.
Bike...
Bike!
Blue... stole...
Whose phone is this,
beeping non-stop?
Malti's.
Hand it over.
We'll need it for the investigation.
Bike and a blue stole...
Whoever did this...
We won't spare him.
Sister, eat something.
Just a bit.
I've been working as a cook for
Shiraz Ma'am for about 5 years now.
We live in the servant
quarters of her bungalow.
Age?
Malti's age.
She's in Class 12, at
the Rajakiya School.
With Rajesh?
It's a girls' school, Sir.
If she's in a girls' school
why is her phone full of
messages from boys?
Akash. Rajesh. Dilip. Prashant.
Pankaj. Vijay. Sanket.
Her phone is full of boys.
How is that relevant to the case?
This is Archana Bajaj. Our lawyer.
Let us have a case first, madam...
Right now we're looking
for a needle in a haystack.
Leave him, sir!
- Leave him, sir!
- Get lost.
- Grab him.
- What happened, sir?
Mummy! Sir I didn't do anything!
Listen to me! Mummy!
What's happened? Where are you
taking him? Leave him!
What has he done?
Blue stole...
Take Mummy along as well.
- Sir, listen to me. Sir!
- Please leave us.
How old are you?
18, and already done Mummy proud?
I haven't done anything.
Are you Malti's boyfriend?
Ask your questions. Just don't
strain the patient too much.
Bring her in.
Was it this blue stole?
Bring her closer.
Sure?
I'm Rajesh's mother, dear!
He hasn't done anything.
Please tell them!
Alright, enough.
Okay then... We'll keep looking.
Is he your relative?
No. But he's like family.
Works in the neighbourhood.
Is that so?
Yes.
But how did you become friends?
You're in a boys' school, and
Malti's in a girls' school.
My friend's girlfriend is her friend.
Ripened too soon, haven't we?
Sir, I haven't done anything!
Then who has?
Babbu.
- Full name?
- Bashir Khan.
- Age?
- 25.
According to my school records.
I'm actually 30.
And do you know how old Malti is?
What do you do?
Tailoring.
I work in a boutique, at Golf Lawns.
Tailor?
Sorry, I read your private messages.
"A word with you
is my only respite..."
"In thousands there is
but one night..."
"When you lift your gaze
to meet my eyes..."
"In that one moment,
I own the skies!"
You're a poet in the guise of a tailor.
She's a friend of mine.
We've been friends for 2 years.
We're like family.
I look out for Malti...
I want to protect her
from bad things.
Babbu knew about us.
Rajesh didn't like my
closeness to Malti's family.
That's why he's trying
to frame me.
Where were you at the
time of the attack?
At school.
In Ghaziabad.
The cell tower at Humayun Road shows
that on the 22nd at 10.30 AM
Babbu's phone was at Mayur Market.
Babbu...
On a bike...
Blue stole...
Threw acid from a glass...
Parveen threw it.
Parveen?
Imitiaz's wife.
Who's Imtiaz?
Babbu's... brother.
Where are you taking him, sir?
Well done!
When did you last see Parveen Shaikh?
Haven't seen her for about 10 days.
We were out of town. We just got
back yesterday from Saharanpur.
Her house has been
locked for 3-4 days.
How could you not tell?
He visited your home regularly,
hung out with all of you...
Ma'am...
Shiraz Ma'am, Malti was fine there...
She would have died there.
You're spending so much
money for us...
If she doesn't get proper treatment now,
her whole life will be ruined.
Now don't do all this. Go to her.
Archana!
He has confessed.
It was Babbu and Parveen on the bike.
Water.
I haven't done anything.
Here it is.
First, we'll work on the eyes...
around the eyelids.
Then we'll reconstruct the mouth
and release the skin around the lips.
Then we'll get to nose reconstruction.
What kind of nose would you like, Malti?
Long or sharp?
You better tell us now.
Don't complain later
that we flattened it!
Mrs. Agarwal...
It's important that Malti see
only her new face now...
After the surgery.
Go... get money from home.
Get lost!
Baby boy's afraid to go home.
After all, there's a monster in there!
Why bring my family into this?
How dare you talk about my sister!
Listen... leave him... leave him!
Leave him... leave him!
Go leave your sister at a circus!
Let's go.
Let's go.
Ma...
Ma!
Malti!
Open your eyes, child...
Now shut them.
Now blink.
Are you going to put everything away?
Ma...
I have no nose... no ears...
How do I wear the earrings?
Throw this radio away too!
Has the correspondence course started?
No.
It begins next month.
But she doesn't seem
too interested in studying.
Call her here.
Come, get up...
Shiraz Aunty is calling you.
Archana Madam's here too.
Come on.
Hi Malti.
We were thinking...
Let's give up on the case.
Because Babbu's won anyway, right?
He's out on bail.
There's a wedding in his family.
His life hasn't come to a standstill.
And look at us...
Lying in bed, hiding in defeat.
This is exactly what he wanted!
Now even if we do send him to jail,
what's the point?
You've lost even before
beginning the case.
Will you come out now?
Do you want to fight?
Completing your education
will give you confidence.
Your chances of getting
a job will increase.
Now tell me...
Who all are going to
complete their studies?
Great!
The dawn, once grey and pale
Now awash with a gleaming ray
The dawn, once grey and pale
Now awash with a gleaming ray
The breath, stifled in knots
Now beginning to exhale...
Beginning to exhale...
Once frozen in an icy dark
Now softening in the warmth of day
The breath, stifled in knots
Now beginning to exhale...
Beginning to exhale...
Papa, I don't want to go
for counseling.
Why, dear?
What happened?
I want to learn stitching
from Sharma Aunty.
Alright.
Have your drink.
I won't tell Mummy.
Light will find a way
To arrive and stay
To vanquish the dark
And paint a new day
Eyes stripped of dreams
Now have hope in their gaze
The breath, stifled in knots
Now beginning to exhale...
Beginning to exhale...
You do realize you're
overreacting, right?
Suhasini Iyer is considered one of the
better judges of the Sessions Court.
- You've done it all wrong!
- Alright, sit! I'll redo it.
Is the height of both braids fine now?
Has she ever interpreted the law
outside of set precedence?
But that shouldn't affect us.
Archana, we will win this case.
The evidence is in our favour.
- I know. You've messed it up again!
- Okay, I'll do it again.
No, you just don't know how to!
- I keep telling you.
- Tea for the ladies!
Should I do your braids?
Okay, come.
Let's see!
Thank God!
Thank God, there is evidence.
But that will only establish the crime...
Not the punishment.
Why?
Well...
If I throw this hot tea on you
it would be a crime under
the IPC Section 326.
Right.
And if I throw acid on you instead,
it's still Section 326!
Got it?
Whether it's hot tea or acid
the sentence for causing
'Grevious Injury' is only 2-7 years.
That's the maximum punishment
you get in that Section.
So Babbu would get a maximum
sentence of 7 years.
And within that, he'll surely spend
4 years going in and out on bail.
For good conduct, he could get
6 months to a year shaved off.
So in effect, he'll probably serve
about 2 years in prison.
So not even 7...
The punishment for destroying
someone's entire life is just 2 years.
Hello...
Hello Malti, how are you?
I'm okay, Didi.
What's happened?
Is your phone not working?
Your first hearing is right here.
I know.
Okay, let's go over this again.
The Defense Lawyer will say that
you never saw Babbu's face...
I did.
He'll say - 'Then why didn't you name
him in your initial statement?'
I did. No one understood...
What if the Defense says that Rajesh
threw the acid. What will you say?
Malti?
Rajesh is my boyfriend.
He was...
Why would he do such a thing?
We were just friends.
But according to the police, you gave a
statement saying Malti is your girlfriend.
I never said that.
Your Honour, please note.
Your Honour, the witness is recanting
from his earlier statement.
You know Malti, don't you?
Yes. We used to go to school together.
She studied at the girls' school nearby.
And do you recognize this man?
No.
He's not going to break.
But the police say you gave
a statement saying
that my client Bashir Khan
threw acid on Malti?
Look carefully...
I gave no such statement.
Your Honour, no more questions.
Your Honour, I would like to present
the logs of the search conducted
at Ms. Shaikh's home, from
the police case diary.
I don't know how this stole
came into my house.
The police probably planted it in
my trunk. I wasn't home, you see!
But tell me, Ms. Shaikh...
if you didn't do anything,
why were you absconding?
I... I got scared.
Your Honour, if Ms. Shaikh is innocent,
she should have nothing to fear.
Objection, Your Honour.
One cannot establish someone as guilty
on the basis of their emotional state.
She has falsely accused Babbu!
I thought she might get me framed too.
Then why does her stole
have acid burns on it?
Hey, can't you hear?
That stole doesn't belong to me!
What about her hands, Your Honour?
They belong to her, right?
These are pictures of Parveen's hands,
about four weeks after the attack.
They're oil burns. From long ago...
Got them while frying food.
Your Honour, the Forensics
report clearly states
that the scars were caused by
a corrosive substance.
Hot oil isn't a corrosive
substance, Your Honour.
But the report doesn't specifically say
that they're acid burns either.
Your Honour, the facts are
being twisted!
The forensic report clearly
states that the burns
were caused by a strong
corrosive substance
such as HCl - Hydrochloric Acid,
HNO3 - Nitric Acid or
H2SO4 - Sulphuric Acid.
What did you use?
- Objection, Your Honour.
- Objection sustained.
- Miss Bajaj, please?
- Sorry, Your Honour.
Your Honour, the report also confirms
that these burns are recent, not old.
We'll discuss this point further,
at the next hearing.
Your Honour.
Don't worry. I'll make a
request for bail.
My client needs to attend to
an important family matter...
He's been in jail for 3 months.
- He is asking for bail.
- I understand.
Your Honour, please reject
this bail request.
The accused is fighting
a charge of acid throwing.
It could have taken my client's life.
He is facing 307 - Attempt to Murder.
Your client is sitting right here!
Your Honour, how is 307 valid?
Please, Your Honour.
Can you provide a surety
of 100000 rupees?
Yes, Your Honour.
Okay, let me take it under consideration.
Should I burn it?
How are you, Rohit?
Mummy!
Your brother Babbu's getting married.
Do come.
He remembers you a lot.
He'll rot in hell, the scoundrel!
What is he trying to prove,
getting married?
Enough now...
He's only got bail. He hasn't
been acquitted.
He'll be back in jail soon enough.
Right, Archana Madam?
This is the second time he's got bail.
Now until the verdict is out,
it won't be easy to send him back to jail.
It would be so good if
Acid stopped being sold.
If you didn't have it,
you wouldn't throw it.
I agree that merely banning the sale
of acid won't curb the crime.
Hence, the first plea in Malti's Petition
is an amendment in the IPC.
Ms Bajaj, Acid attacks are
undoubtedly a heinous crime.
But what you're asking for... how will
you achieve this on the ground?
I don't know how practical
a blanket ban is.
Your Lordship, if we can ban the
sale of eggs in Rishikesh...
Why can't we ban the sale of Acid
in the country?
Your Lordship, it's very easy
to throw acid...
And just as difficult to
get the attacker punished.
Because Section 326 - Grievous injury
doesn't take cognizance
of this crime's severity.
These sections are outdated.
I urge this court to amend
the appropriate sections
according to the intensity of the crime.
Fair enough.
But we cannot take this decision
without the Government's approval.
Which we all know is not the
easiest task in the world.
This bench admits this plea.
Let's revisit this plea
in three months' time.
And let's include the Solicitor General
at the next hearing.
Whenever we talk about
violence on women
why do we instantly ask
for a change in laws?
We all know that just changing laws
won't change people's mindsets.
Will banning knives stop murders?
You're right.
Which is why, along with amending the law,
we are also asking for a ban on the
unchecked sale of Acid. Next.
But can this really be enforced?
Can a household item like this
be banned instantly?
Industrial use makes sense.
Why do you need Acid at home?
How do you clean your toilets?
Yes, asking for a complete ban on
Acid is ambitious, but also important.
- Next.
- Ms Malti...
It's being said that your attacker
knew you for many years.
He even wanted to marry you,
and you met him often too.
We were family friends.
We all knew him.
If he was a family friend,
known to you...
Why would he suddenly attack
you with acid, for no reason?
What does that mean?
Is it her fault?
Ms Malti, your boyfriend Rajesh has
claimed that you were just friends.
Is that true?
I... I haven't spoken to Rajesh...
Malti, can you show us your face...
So that the public can see
the severity of the attack?
What plans of marriage? I mean,
have you thought of settling down?
What kind of questions are these?
How many more surgeries?
Depends. Five to seven.
Does it frighten you?
Not as much as Court.
Actually this surgery is special.
We'll take skin from your back
and graft it on your face.
So the skin looks even.
From here to here, we'll use
a single piece of skin.
One even skin, all over.
This should really improve your face.
Doctor, can you fix my ear this time?
This surgery is a little specialized, dear.
We'll work on the ear
the next time?
You wait outside, Malti...
I'll just come.
- Is this going to be complicated?
- It is a complicated procedure.
The surgery will be completed
in 10 days and 3 stages.
Malti will be in the ICU for 5 days.
And she will be on a ventilator.
It is complicated,
but it will be worth it.
I'll serve Shiraz Ma'am
mangoes and come.
You're serving her the same
mangoes that she gave us?
You could have bought some sweets?
She passed somehow!
Thank God! They might not
have given her a fourth chance!
Now... College?
High School is enough for us.
I want money.
I don't have any. Go home.
Everything is for Malti...
Right?
Go home. There's a box in the cupboard.
You'll find 100 rupees in it.
How did you not realize that
your son is so unwell?
Intestinal TB. Second stage.
Meenakshi has come from
Archana Ma'am's office.
- I need to go sign some papers.
- What papers?
For the case.
Which case is this now?
Don't start off, Mummy.
Don't we have enough troubles already?
Your brother's sick,
Dad's an alcoholic...
And you want to save the nation!
Do you want to run around
courts all your life?
Only the privileged
can afford to do this.
You're leaving now?
It will be dark by the time you return...
So?
What worse can happen now?
She's angry, right?
Let her be. She's worried.
You focus on your work.
After four years, we have finally got
a hearing at the Sessions Court.
Barely two weeks are left...
Archana Ma'am, I want
to ask you something.
Yes...
This case - it'll be over now, right?
Why, what's happened?
Actually, Mummy's right.
These legal battles, the media...
I don't think I can do this.
Okay... then who will?
I mean, there are so many
problems at home...
Malti... Do you know why Babbu
has been granted bail again?
He is going to have a child.
After the Sessions Court,
it will be the High Court.
After that, the Supreme Court.
There's a long way ahead.
Get used to the noise.
We will have a lot of fun without you!
I hate you.
Bye.
I don't get it, you know.
Why was Malti tolerating him?
She should've just slapped him!
If she had slapped him and then
Bashir Khan had thrown acid on her,
you would've said - Malti shouldn't
have aggravated him.
Broken beer bottle with acid stains.
For the beer bottle, the Defense will
surely say it was planted by the police.
In such cases, always keep
supporting evidence ready.
Babbu's confession...
Which the Defense claims, was
extracted via third degree treatment.
Then comes, Malti's statement.
And why is Malti's statement
so important to this case?
Not you. Sukesh?
Ma'am, because in this case the
victim herself is an eyewitness?
Hence the court will give maximum
weightage to the victim's testimony.
Very good!
And finally, our trump card...
Babbu's cellphone record.
At the time of the attack
the accused's phone was at the
crime spot. At Mayur Market.
Again. Evidence will
establish the crime.
We need to focus on the sentence.
Not 326, we must constantly
underline Section 307.
In light of the evidence presented,
this Court pronounces
Bashir Khan aka Babbu guilty
under IPC Sections 307 and 120B.
For being an accomplice to a horrific crime
like an Acid attack,
the Court also pronounces Parveen Shaikh
guilty under IPC Sections 307 and 120B.
The Court sentences Bashir Khan to
10 years of rigorous imprisonment
and a fine of 75000 rupees.
And Parveen Shaikh to 7 years
of rigorous imprisonment
and a fine of 50000 rupees.
Your Honour, you know 10 years
is not enough...
Ms Bajaj, I thought you'd be happy.
10 years for an Acid attack
is unprecedented.
Pardon me, Your Honour but this
case was so severe that...
Your Honour, my client Bashir Khan
would like to appeal for leniency.
He is also ready to give the complainant
100000 rupees as compensation.
And... We'll meet in High Court,
Miss Bajaj.
This judgement is historic...
For the first time in
an Acid attack case,
a Sessions Court has given
a 10-year prison sentence.
Now we hope
that our Petition comes up
for hearing soon
and the laws are amended as well.
Ms Malti, Bashir Khan offered you
100000 rupees as compensation.
Why did you refuse it?
Accepting his money would
mean forgiving him.
He scarred my face...
Not my spirit.
The dawn, once grey and pale
Now awash with a gleaming ray
The breath, stifled in knots
Now beginning to exhale...
Beginning to exhale...
Open up... And begin...
A new sky is unfolding within...
Open up... And begin...
A new sky is unfolding within...
Look, it's simple.
There's a whole universe out there
beyond social media.
We want to mobilize the youth...
Let's go to Delhi University.
Gargi, Miranda House...
Let's go to girls' colleges and talk
directly to the young women.
We could also perform street plays
to stir up the people.
This isn't enough.
We need more money.
Look, we can't spend more than
twenty thousand on any campaign.
Amol has put a cap on the spends.
Amol Sir. You need to crouch lower.
I can still see your ears.
Hmm... Did you say something?
The same old story again!
If we advertise poorly, our
communication won't be strong.
So be it.
Those who want to contribute,
will do so because of our intention;
not the fancy designs of our campaign.
And the focus should be on the
cause... right Manish?
No... I mean, Malti has a point too.
Our communication needs to
keep up with the times.
And, to bring in funders,
our messaging must be crisp.
Look, this money is first and foremost
for the Acid Survivors.
We can get donations by posting
on social media too.
Manish, send me Suresh Paswan's
bank details-
- I need more funds!
- You won't get more!
Campaign with the resources
we have, or let it be!
We've collected 60000 rupees
for Chitra and Suman.
Both the sisters are admitted
in hospital.
We've organized accommodation
for their family too.
The operation must happen
as soon as possible.
We need to go to the hospital
and pressurize the authorities.
We need some sensible volunteers...
A team of four must be present
at the hospital in advance.
Malti, your phone has a camera,
right? You can record on it.
Sorry Deepa, I'm going home.
Hello Mummy... I'll be late today.
Again?
Aren't your hassles in court enough?
Now this too!
Mummy, two sisters were attacked. They've
come all the way from Patna to Delhi.
Got your salary?
It'll come.
Sister, we need to shift
them to the burn ward.
Ma'am, you're not even wearing gloves!
- I'll be back.
- Sis... Sister!
They belonged to an upper-caste.
All four...
They would taunt us
and say, 'Low-caste folk
can't be software engineers'.
They were sexually harassing us, sir...
At night, they climbed onto
the roof of our house.
It was a thatch roof,
so it gave way easily.
They had brought Acid with them...
They threw it on both of us...
The face fades
Like a fallen pawn
Like light smothered by the dark
In a splash, all erased...
Gently!
A smile defaced
Wiped out of sight
In the sprinkle of a spark
In a splash, all erased...
We reached Patna hospital somehow...
And the guard shooed us away.
He said - "This hospital isn't
for low-caste people like you."
Had they admitted me...
my face could have been saved!
A handful of darkness
The eyes are intent
A smile defaced
Wiped out of sight
In the sprinkle of a spark
In a splash, all erased...
Everything was erased...
"Such monsters should be killed."
"Stop Acid Violence - Chhaaya,
you are doing a great job."
"Congratulations to Chitra and
Suman for successful surgery."
Wow! Show me...
How many likes did it get?
Over a thousand.
Oh my God!
"How can one human being do this
to another human being?"
"This is bar... baric."
Barbaric.
Bar-baric means?
Hmm... Very bad, I guess.
"These girls look like freaks."
"Their lives are completely ruined."
Malti?
Your face looks so good.
I want mine to be like that too.
We'll get surgery done for you.
Gradually, it will improve.
How many surgeries
have you had?
- Seven.
- Seven!
How? I'm still struggling to manage
money for my second.
You'll get 300000 from the
Victim compensation scheme...
Oh yes! This time I'll get a face
exactly like Alia Bhatt!
But when will the money come?
I had asked Amol Sir.
He snapped at me, and how!
"Get lost! Going on about
the compensation scheme!"
"Am I the government?
How would I know?"
You're mad!
Only you get away with
saying anything to him.
Aren't you afraid of him?
Why should I be...
Is he the government?
The neighbours called. They're asking
us to reduce the volume.
No alcohol?
No?
That's all that is missing!
Amol Sir, where were you?
Everyone's been trying to call you.
326 A and B!
Cut the cake!
Tell me something, Ms Malti.
What's 326 A and B?
What do they mean?
Amol Sir, why are you doing this?
No, please explain to us why
we're celebrating 326's birthday.
Amol Sir, the IPC has been amended.
Acid attacks now have a
separate section under law.
Isn't that what you...
what all of us wanted?
Oh... So, the penal code has been
amended and that's enough?
The attacker will get a 10-year sentence
and the victim will get compensation?
Wow, very good!
Come on everyone... stop playing
NGO-NGO, and go home.
Our work here is done.
Now that there's a new law, the crimes
will automatically stop! Isn't it?
Acid is sold cheaper than cola
in this country.
Your Petition has been stuck for 7 years...
And you want to celebrate?
Acid is still not banned. Get it?
Amol Sir, you know
what your problem is?
You behave like you've been
attacked with acid...
But the Acid was thrown on me, not you...
And I...
...would like to party.
Don't overreact now.
Come on, Amol Sir.
Everyone is waiting for you downstairs.
Everyone is calling you and
you're sulking here. Not done.
- I don't want to come.
- How can we party without you?
According the court records,
and as far as I recall...
Two years ago, back in 2011...
this bench had put forth some directives.
Every state was asked
to submit a proposal to regulate the
sale of acid.
A period of two months was granted.
It's been two years.
So far, we haven't seen any concrete
report on the Ban or the Compensation.
Are you likely to present something today,
Mr Solicitor General?
Yes, Your Lordship.
Luckily, the Home Minister met the
concerned Secretaries of State a month ago.
There was a meeting on National Security.
We also discussed the sale of acid.
What do you mean, 'also discussed'?
Why does it sound like the government
isn't taking this issue seriously?
Apologies, Your Lordship.
That's not what I meant.
Anyway, please continue.
Your Lordship, we request the
court to grant us another date.
Why?
The Chemicals Minister
couldn't come today.
It's like we are running a school!
Why is he absent?
His son is getting married.
I'll tell you what...
If, by the next hearing,
all the States do not present
their proposals before the court...
Then this bench will not hesitate
to give a final decision on
learned counsel Ms Bajaj's petition.
- Is that clear?
- Yes Sir.
- One bottle of acid.
- Sulphuric or Hydrochloric?
Which one's deadlier?
Today, Manish from 'Stop Acid Violence'
went to a store near our office
Thirty.
and bought a bottle of acid.
No one stopped or questioned him.
Bought for just 30 rupees, this bottle
of acid stands here so innocuously...
Like it has no idea of the violence
it can unleash.
Last week at a Mumbai station
Pinky Rathore was attacked
with Acid in broad daylight.
Not a word or warning...
Someone tapped her shoulder,
hurled acid at her
and disappeared into the crowd.
The entire Chhaaya team has left for Mumbai
to stand in support of Pinky Rathore.
If you would like to help her
please contribute funds
using these bank details.
Pinky Rathore's family will be
truly grateful for your support.
Tickets, please.
We'll spark off a rebellion!
We'll whip up a furore!
Our destinies lie in our hands...
We ain't flowers but firebrands!
Yes Amol Sir...
We need to complete the formalities
according to hospital procedure.
We won't accept Pinky's body until
we meet the Chief Minister!
Her face, lungs, heart...
everything was burnt with acid.
No one came to see her.
She kept writing till her last breath,
asking just one question -
"Why did someone do this?"
Why?!
Has the Government made any decision?
Will you transfer the case to the CBI?
When will the Victim compensation
be given, Sir?
We met Pinky Rathore's family and
have given them our assurance...
To have faith in the Government.
We've assigned this case to
the Crime Branch
and we believe the attacker
will be caught soon.
Dreams and desires
Are all extinguished
The will to live
Now entirely demolished
All is scorched...
Everything is erased...
The Home Minister has announced
a compensation of 200000 rupees
for Pinky's family.
On the demand for a ban on acid,
he had no response.
What are you doing here?
Nothing, really...
We have to leave for the station.
This was Pinky's room...
You know, I actually feel
a little jealous of her...
She died...
Why jealous now?
Exactly.
She escaped the ordeal
of courts and surgeries.
Lucky.
I'll give you my sympathies
in the train.
Now come on.
Actually... I needed to talk to you.
I hope you won't get me wrong.
Okay, let's reach Delhi first.
What's the matter? Tell me...
I...
What is it?
You're not proposing to me, are you?
Sorry...
I'll have to quit this job. Babbu has
appealed in the High Court.
Mummy's always worried.
- The salary isn't paid on time...
- Even we aren't paid on time.
I know.
But my brother's hospital expenses
are so high, and...
I thought you were different
from everyone else.
- That you understood the cause.
- I do understand!
But I can't do this now...
Then what was the Petition all about?
A sham?
Let it be...
Do whatever you want.
"I thought everything
would be fine now."
"I'd earn well."
"Send you money and pay my brother
and sister's fees too..."
"And ease your burden..."
"But look what happened, Papa!"
"I just want to know who did this,
and why?"
"Papa, please appeal to the police"
"that the culprit be sentenced
to death."
"Papa, I don't care
how my face will look..."
"Just save my life, please."
"I'll work, earn and
make everything okay."
"Just save me..."
"Please get me a good doctor, Papa..."
End quote.
The letter Pinky Rathore wrote
to her parents after the attack.
Should be anytime now...
Your Lordship, studying the background
of acid victims and survivors reveals
that most of the attacks
were on girls
who wanted to study
or make a career.
Whenever a girl tried to
better her social status,
she was punished for it.
She was shown her place
by dousing her with Acid.
What drives such an act
is impossible to explain.
But to regulate the sale of Acid,
is possible for this bench.
We cannot bring Pinky back...
But we can definitely try
to ensure that other girls
don't suffer like Pinky and Malti did.
IT'S BANNED!
Ms Malti, Ms Archana...
Thanks to your Petition
today the sale of acid has been
regulated across the country.
How do you feel?
The judgement has arrived.
Archana Ma'am has called us.
Now can we celebrate the ban?
A retort for every quip
Turn there...
Smiling away the pinpricks too
It's been regulated, not banned.
These ties run free of knots
It's the words that entangle you
But... haven't you resigned?
Well, Chhaaya needs me right now.
So much they manage to say
What are you doing, man?
Here! Turn here!
Now take the next turn.
What needs to be said
Is what's left to say...
I need to send an interview byte
to the channel.
- The camera operator's busy.
- Is that why I've been called?
Fine! I'll record it myself!
Take this turn ahead...
Damnit! Stop it, man.
Stop!
There's a celebrity travelling with us.
And you have no clue
which way you're going!
Riding a rickshaw and you don't even
know the routes.
Twenty's enough!
Don't you know 'Left' and 'Right'?
Wasted my time with your
'turn here - turn there'!
Move your foot!
Listen... I'm heading to Uncle's.
Ma is waiting there.
Please come forward,
Honourable Ms Malti!
Ready?
A bit to the side...
The other side!
Don't you know 'Left' and 'Right'?
Come on, it wasn't that funny.
Okay fine - move to the right.
What are you doing?
Let it be! I can't do it
in front of you.
Why? Come on, let's start.
The first question...
The Supreme Court has ruled that the sale
of Acid must be regulated in the country.
Are you happy with
the court's decision?
Yes, I'm happy.
There's a long fight still ahead.
You can't look so happy!
But I am happy, what do I do?
Sorry...
The sale of Acid has been
regulated, not banned.
Now all schools, shops,
industries etc.
have to register the sale of Acid
or else pay a heavy fine.
So Acid hasn't been banned.
It will still be sold.
After a struggle of seven years,
we've only won half the battle.
We still have a long way to go.
But Malti, your Petition has initiated
a significant step in
Acid Violence Legislation.
The foundation of this Petition
is Archana Bajaj Ma'am.
Right from the outset, she has
believed that to stop this crime
we need to understand its roots.
Malti, those who threw acid on you...
Do they know that you are
spearheading this campaign?
I don't know if they're aware of it.
It's good if they are.
She is very good.
She is.
Why did you refuse Alka's offer?
Jeetu, you go... I'll manage.
This is a great chance for you...
To become a TV anchor.
People will know you, and through you,
they'll know of our cause.
But I am working for the cause here.
But we can't pay your salary on time.
Then you have problems at home.
You know... it's all before you...
Ever since I quit journalism, I haven't
been able to buy myself a new shirt.
This path isn't easy.
I feel uncomfortable
in front of the camera.
You're not uncomfortable at all.
You say whatever you like,
you do as you please.
Did I say something wrong?
No... but that day outside the court?
The entire media's gaze is on you.
You can't just jump up
and hug anyone!
I didn't hug just 'anyone'.
I hugged someone who was special...
This stuff belongs in the movies.
We're here to work...
let's stick to that.
If someone loves you silently,
why is it a problem?
You carry on with your work.
In the shade of a shared pain
They embraced each other
Who once were strangers
Now walk on together
So much they've managed to say
So much has now been heard
Only the eyes will speak further
What remains unsaid
What remains unsaid
Is what's left to say...
Malti... we're ready.
Hello and welcome to
The Delhi Daily.
I'm Malti Agarwal, and today we'll talk
about Child Rights and Protection...
Good for her. But she still
doesn't answer her phone.
- She doesn't think much of you...
- Whatever.
Okay, should I call her about
the High Court hearing, or will you?
You do it.
Sister.
Come on, eat something.
This is a good hospital...
Trust me, Rohit will soon
be back home, healthy.
Salary...
Hello...
Malti Madam... You've become such a star.
You never answer your phone!
Come on, Archana Ma'am...
Felt good to see you on TV.
You made me proud!
It's all because of you
Archana Ma'am.
I had completely given up.
All the TV interviews have made you
a smart speaker!
Okay, the High Court's date
is drawing close.
These could be the final hearings.
You're so busy these days,
you may not remember.
How can I forget...
Well, I'll be happy if you do.
Babbu's shadow has followed you
for too many years now.
I thought you said you
don't like expensive gifts.
You alone have the right?
To love 'silently'?
Will you take me for the hearing?
I can't just take anyone now, can I?
Well, I'm not just 'anyone' now, am I?
You said it yourself...
I'm 'special'.
I want to see him.
What's there to see?
I want to know why he did it.
If you figure it out,
explain it to me too...
There's evil in each of us...
that is certain.
But how does one succumb
to evil so completely
that they totally lose control?
Because it's also certain that
Acid poisons the mind first...
then comes into the hands.
"There was a glass in the hand,
and acid in the glass..."
This detail isn't present
in any of Ms Malti's statements.
She said this for the first time
in the court.
Your Lordship, the Defense Counsel
is overlooking
Malti's physical and mental state
at the time.
In such a condition,
it's difficult to give a statement
or remember every small detail.
This medical report states exactly that,
Your Lordship.
Alright, fine. I assume she was better
when she appeared in court.
In court, Ms Malti testified that
my client had worn a helmet.
Then how did she recognize
his face so clearly?
The helmet didn't have a visor, because
of which the attacker's face was visible.
Also, my client knew Babbu.
He wasn't a stranger.
So it was easy to identify him.
The Sessions Court records also state
that Malti did not identify my
client in her first statement.
She named my client only in
her second statement.
Your Lordship, the Sessions Court
records clearly state
that Malti named the defendant
in the hospital,
but no one understood it
as her speech wasn't clear.
If my client was guilty,
why would he come to visit Malti
in the hospital after the attack?
Perhaps the defendant wanted to check
if Malti had seen him or not?
Whether she would identify him or not?
Human behaviour is unpredictable,
Your Lordship.
Two people could behave differently
in the same circumstance.
The point I am trying to make
is that Malti is the sole
eyewitness to this attack.
And there can be no stronger evidence
than her testimony itself.
And we shouldn't rely solely
on her testimony,
because she has been continuously
changing her statements.
Your Lordship, I request the court
to allow Malti to say something.
You should've let me stitch
your first outfit.
I'd have made sure it fits well.
It's Mummy's...
I used to think you're still
a little girl.
But you're quite a woman now.
I'm getting late for my tuition, Brother...
Come, I'll drop you.
- I'll manage...
- Come on, sit.
I drop your mother to the
market too... Come.
Hey, this is really spicy!
Bye.
Okay, no further from here.
Just till there.
Please?
Why are you walking so fast?
Slow down...
So shall we meet in the evening?
What will I say at home?
That you're going for tuitions.
Hey you! Who are you?
What's happening here?
- What's up, Uncle?
- What's up? I'll tell you what's up!
Brother! Brother, please!
And you! Shameless!
You come home with me...
What's this... how can you force her?
You want me to show you how?
Do you?
Rajesh! You go...
'Rajesh, you go'...
So much concern for him?
Sorry, Brother.
Get lost, dipshit!
- Don't be seen around this colony again!
- Brother, please!
Should I tell your father
about your antics?
- Don't tell him... please...
- He'll break your legs. Understand?
Don't tell Papa... Brother, please.
I'm not your 'brother'... got it?!
I'm NOT your brother!
Is there any dessert?
Have sugar. It's the month's end,
we can't afford dessert.
'I Love You'
Malti?
Malti...
You quit school?
I told you, you must complete
your studies anyhow.
Shiraz Aunty...
You can open up so many
avenues for yourself, Malti...
It's not what you think.
Come. Let me show you...
The classes begin on the 1st.
The bookshop was just an excuse.
I'll be India's next Idol, Shiraz Aunty!
'I want to marry you.
Give me an answer now.'
- Bye.
- Take care.
Yes?
Hello?
You have big dreams, don't you?
What?
Want to make your parents proud?
What?
You!
Upholding the lower court's decision...
this court rejects the Defense's appeal.
And under Section 307,
sentences the guilty Bashir Khan to
10 years of rigorous imprisonment
and orders him to pay a compensation
of 300000 rupees.
Old paths long and lost
Have now found a new way
What remains unsaid
Is what's left to say...
Only the eyes will speak further now...
What remains unsaid
Is what's left to say...
- Let's take a selfie!
- Come.
Thanks, I'm posting this!
You look so pretty!
Come take a selfie with me.
Wait, wait... me too!
We want justice! We want justice!
Public anger is on the rise
following the brutal rape
of a medical student on 16th December.
People across ages have taken to the
streets of the capital city
demanding the strictest punishment
to the perpetrators arrested
by the Delhi Police.
From my heart to your heart,
Raging through me and you
No matter who ignites it,
This fire must be kept alive!
It's probably the first time
that Delhi has seen
such an emotionally charged
public protest.
The crowds are undeterred by the
presence of security forces.
Their rage and resolve
continues to grow.
We want justice, hang them!
Beat us a hundred times, we'll still
turn up in thousands and not turn back.
No... Don't touch it, Uncle!
It's expensive!
Please understand, Uncle.
Alka...
I'm sorry Sir, we can't
cover you right now.
- Please step aside.
- Come this way, Uncle.
Amol Dwivedi?
Yes.
Amol, we were at the editing
workshop together.
In the journalism course.
Right. How are you?
I've been following your campaign...
You're doing great work.
Well, acid attacks don't
get noticed like rape does.
But Uncle just doesn't get it!
Malti's Petition has brought a lot
of attention to acid attacks, right?
Where is Malti? Is she here?
Why so negative, Amol?
Everything begins with
the first step, right?
I'll track down Malti.
Stick around, results will follow.
Let's go.
Sticking around will get us killed.
We must leave now. Come.
Cynical as always?
Come, let's go!
Make sure you buy tickets.
How many of us?
- Eleven.
- Eleven.
All routes must be diverted today?
Yes, there's a blockade all the way
from Red Fort to India Gate.
They had it coming.
This government should fall.
It just might if the girl dies...
Why punish the ones who are alive?
Madam, I can barely recall the
salesgirl from last month...
You're asking me about 8 years ago!
That salesgirl was attacked
with acid, Uncle...
Right outside the market.
Her name was Malti.
How can you say you don't remember?
I'm sure you have some contact of hers.
Check your records please!
They lived in the servant quarters
of Bungalow number 35.
Manohar Lal passed away
about 4-5 months ago.
They moved away after that.
I already told you over the phone,
she doesn't want to speak to the media.
They have been through enough already.
Ma'am believe me, I'm
an ethical journalist.
I won't misuse her contact.
Shyamlal!
Ma'am, after the Nirbhaya case
it's become even more crucial
to bring Malti's story to people.
You have a steady hand.
With 5-10 days practice, you'll be set.
Can you do manicures?
Yes.
It's so tough to win clients'
confidence these days.
There's so much competition!
This girl who worked for me opened
her own parlour last month. Imagine!
The problem is, Malti...
People expect beauty
at a beauty parlour.
Excuse me.
Why did you quit studies
after high school?
Thank you.
- Sir, can I get you something?
- No, not now.
You didn't mention in the application
about your... you know...
There's no category
for Acid survivors, Sir.
Had there been, I would
have mentioned it.
Have you tried applying
for jobs at restaurants?
They have vacancies
for disabled people now!
- Good morning ma'am.
- Two aloo tikki burgers please.
They've taken Rohit for a test again.
The doctor says I need
to get checked for TB too.
If not me, at least
listen to the doctor.
If you stay here day and night,
you're bound to fall ill.
Papa would have never
allowed Rohit to stay here.
It's not that bad.
If your father was around, we
wouldn't even have managed this.
- He'd drink away all our money.
- Don't start now, Mummy.
Shiraz Aunty!
Why don't you call back, Malti?
I was going to, Shiraz Aunty.
I've come to the hospital with food.
I told you we should shift
Rohit to a better hospital.
You've already done
so much, Shiraz Aunty.
This hospital isn't all that bad.
I know how bad it is.
Okay, listen...
There is this journalist - Alka.
She wants to meet you.
She's been after me for weeks.
Will you meet her?
Brother...
Shiraz Aunty, I'll call you back.
Here, I'll do it.
This doesn't hurt anymore.
The Justice Verma Committee
submitted its report last month.
It takes a hard look at
violence against women.
Do you feel it will draw attention
to the issue of acid attacks?
It would be great if it does.
The Verma Committee proposes
a separate section of law
for acid attacks.
And for punishment to be increased.
Isn't this a big victory?
It would be, if the law is passed.
Alka ma'am, can I get
a job at your office?
I can work on computers.
Work as a receptionist,
attend calls, answer emails...
Yeah sure...
I'll go to the office and find out.
Okay.
So, Malti...
Your Petition demands a ban
on the sale of acid.
You took this important step...
And it's been 7 years since.
Nothing has moved.
Acid is still sold freely.
Can we stop now?
I have a job interview.
- Sure.
- Thank you.
Have you heard of
'Stop Acid Violence'?
No.
There's this man called Amol Dwivedi.
- You should meet him.
- Will he give me a job?
Not sure about a job...
but a lecture, definitely!
Alka said you run an NGO.
Can I get a job there?
Who Alka?
She's a reporter with AajTak.
- Your friend...
- Right.
What kind of work can you do?
Office work.
Will you be able to
manage an NGO's work?
Yes.
Look, we work to help Acid Survivors
and this kind of work
requires a certain ethos.
Only a sensitive person
can handle this job.
Believe me, some people get alarmed
just looking at their faces.
Actually...
And the salary won't be much either.
You'd be better off
working at a call center!
- Mr. Amol, can you hear me out...
- What do you do currently, by the way?
Hello?
Nothing. I have to go
to court off and on...
So I had to quit my job.
Court? Why?
There's an old Petition of mine.
What Petition?
To ban Acid.
Petition... Malti?
Yes.
I'm so sorry!
Please come.
Let's meet in the office.
From providing moral support
to making them self-reliant
our organization Chhaaya
supports acid-attack victims
in every way possible.
Yes... This campaign needs support.
It needs funds.
It needs good people like you.
Our Vice-president Manish Kumar
will explain the entire process to you.
Yes, it's all fully transparent.
All details are available online.
Okay... job done!
Is there no interview?
Consider it done.
You tell us when you can join.
Today?
You can put today's date
on the joining letter.
I'm applying for a personal loan.
I'll need it for documentation.
Joining letter.
- I'll be back.
- Okay.
Thank you.
You took us on quite a ride!
We've been looking
for you for a while.
Chhaaya needs you.
What would my salary be?
Look, consider yourself a founder...
not an employee.
You've come to the right place.
Now just dive right in!
Shall we?
Yes.
They're back from the hospital.
They found accommodation close-by.
Thank God... they can't make her
travel in this grueling heat.
Yes, we've fixed a call-time of 4 pm.
Enough.
Just a little more.
There're only two spoons left.
Chhaaya has managed
to collect 25000 rupees.
We'll deposit the advance at
the hospital tomorrow morning.
The operation won't be
delayed. Don't worry.
Ready?
Her exams were round the corner.
She left for her math tuition at 4 am.
She must have barely reached the turn
when we heard her scream.
She came running, covering her face...
"Baba! Someone threw hot water on me!"
Her skin was blue and blistering.
We instantly realized...
this wasn't hot water.
But why did he do this?
He was her classmate.
He'd try to mingle with her.
She didn't pay any attention to him.
God knows what went through his mind.
He just splashed her with
acid... To punish her!
A smile defaced
Wiped out of sight
In the sprinkle of a spark
In a splash, all erased...
The face fades
Like a fallen pawn
Like light smothered by the dark
In a splash, all erased...
Neither love, nor longing
No promises to be kept
Neither love, nor longing
No promises to be kept
A handful of darkness
The eyes are intent
A smile defaced
Wiped out of sight
In the sprinkle of a spark
In a splash, all erased...
The face fades
Like a fallen pawn
Like light smothered by the dark
In a splash, all erased...
A meaningless fetish
Raging smoke without fire
A meaningless fetish
Raging smoke without fire
The mind is delirious
The thoughts are dire
A smile defaced
Wiped out of sight
In the sprinkle of a spark
In a splash, all erased...
All is scorched...
Everything is erased...
What happened, dear?
How did this happen?
Please keep your distance.
She is prone to infection.
- Tell me, child...
- Sir, please.
Ask her who threw the acid.
Please, you have to stop this.
Look at her!
She is not ready for any statement.
Please make him understand.
Bike...
Bike!
Blue... stole...
Whose phone is this,
beeping non-stop?
Malti's.
Hand it over.
We'll need it for the investigation.
Bike and a blue stole...
Whoever did this...
We won't spare him.
Sister, eat something.
Just a bit.
I've been working as a cook for
Shiraz Ma'am for about 5 years now.
We live in the servant
quarters of her bungalow.
Age?
Malti's age.
She's in Class 12, at
the Rajakiya School.
With Rajesh?
It's a girls' school, Sir.
If she's in a girls' school
why is her phone full of
messages from boys?
Akash. Rajesh. Dilip. Prashant.
Pankaj. Vijay. Sanket.
Her phone is full of boys.
How is that relevant to the case?
This is Archana Bajaj. Our lawyer.
Let us have a case first, madam...
Right now we're looking
for a needle in a haystack.
Leave him, sir!
- Leave him, sir!
- Get lost.
- Grab him.
- What happened, sir?
Mummy! Sir I didn't do anything!
Listen to me! Mummy!
What's happened? Where are you
taking him? Leave him!
What has he done?
Blue stole...
Take Mummy along as well.
- Sir, listen to me. Sir!
- Please leave us.
How old are you?
18, and already done Mummy proud?
I haven't done anything.
Are you Malti's boyfriend?
Ask your questions. Just don't
strain the patient too much.
Bring her in.
Was it this blue stole?
Bring her closer.
Sure?
I'm Rajesh's mother, dear!
He hasn't done anything.
Please tell them!
Alright, enough.
Okay then... We'll keep looking.
Is he your relative?
No. But he's like family.
Works in the neighbourhood.
Is that so?
Yes.
But how did you become friends?
You're in a boys' school, and
Malti's in a girls' school.
My friend's girlfriend is her friend.
Ripened too soon, haven't we?
Sir, I haven't done anything!
Then who has?
Babbu.
- Full name?
- Bashir Khan.
- Age?
- 25.
According to my school records.
I'm actually 30.
And do you know how old Malti is?
What do you do?
Tailoring.
I work in a boutique, at Golf Lawns.
Tailor?
Sorry, I read your private messages.
"A word with you
is my only respite..."
"In thousands there is
but one night..."
"When you lift your gaze
to meet my eyes..."
"In that one moment,
I own the skies!"
You're a poet in the guise of a tailor.
She's a friend of mine.
We've been friends for 2 years.
We're like family.
I look out for Malti...
I want to protect her
from bad things.
Babbu knew about us.
Rajesh didn't like my
closeness to Malti's family.
That's why he's trying
to frame me.
Where were you at the
time of the attack?
At school.
In Ghaziabad.
The cell tower at Humayun Road shows
that on the 22nd at 10.30 AM
Babbu's phone was at Mayur Market.
Babbu...
On a bike...
Blue stole...
Threw acid from a glass...
Parveen threw it.
Parveen?
Imitiaz's wife.
Who's Imtiaz?
Babbu's... brother.
Where are you taking him, sir?
Well done!
When did you last see Parveen Shaikh?
Haven't seen her for about 10 days.
We were out of town. We just got
back yesterday from Saharanpur.
Her house has been
locked for 3-4 days.
How could you not tell?
He visited your home regularly,
hung out with all of you...
Ma'am...
Shiraz Ma'am, Malti was fine there...
She would have died there.
You're spending so much
money for us...
If she doesn't get proper treatment now,
her whole life will be ruined.
Now don't do all this. Go to her.
Archana!
He has confessed.
It was Babbu and Parveen on the bike.
Water.
I haven't done anything.
Here it is.
First, we'll work on the eyes...
around the eyelids.
Then we'll reconstruct the mouth
and release the skin around the lips.
Then we'll get to nose reconstruction.
What kind of nose would you like, Malti?
Long or sharp?
You better tell us now.
Don't complain later
that we flattened it!
Mrs. Agarwal...
It's important that Malti see
only her new face now...
After the surgery.
Go... get money from home.
Get lost!
Baby boy's afraid to go home.
After all, there's a monster in there!
Why bring my family into this?
How dare you talk about my sister!
Listen... leave him... leave him!
Leave him... leave him!
Go leave your sister at a circus!
Let's go.
Let's go.
Ma...
Ma!
Malti!
Open your eyes, child...
Now shut them.
Now blink.
Are you going to put everything away?
Ma...
I have no nose... no ears...
How do I wear the earrings?
Throw this radio away too!
Has the correspondence course started?
No.
It begins next month.
But she doesn't seem
too interested in studying.
Call her here.
Come, get up...
Shiraz Aunty is calling you.
Archana Madam's here too.
Come on.
Hi Malti.
We were thinking...
Let's give up on the case.
Because Babbu's won anyway, right?
He's out on bail.
There's a wedding in his family.
His life hasn't come to a standstill.
And look at us...
Lying in bed, hiding in defeat.
This is exactly what he wanted!
Now even if we do send him to jail,
what's the point?
You've lost even before
beginning the case.
Will you come out now?
Do you want to fight?
Completing your education
will give you confidence.
Your chances of getting
a job will increase.
Now tell me...
Who all are going to
complete their studies?
Great!
The dawn, once grey and pale
Now awash with a gleaming ray
The dawn, once grey and pale
Now awash with a gleaming ray
The breath, stifled in knots
Now beginning to exhale...
Beginning to exhale...
Once frozen in an icy dark
Now softening in the warmth of day
The breath, stifled in knots
Now beginning to exhale...
Beginning to exhale...
Papa, I don't want to go
for counseling.
Why, dear?
What happened?
I want to learn stitching
from Sharma Aunty.
Alright.
Have your drink.
I won't tell Mummy.
Light will find a way
To arrive and stay
To vanquish the dark
And paint a new day
Eyes stripped of dreams
Now have hope in their gaze
The breath, stifled in knots
Now beginning to exhale...
Beginning to exhale...
You do realize you're
overreacting, right?
Suhasini Iyer is considered one of the
better judges of the Sessions Court.
- You've done it all wrong!
- Alright, sit! I'll redo it.
Is the height of both braids fine now?
Has she ever interpreted the law
outside of set precedence?
But that shouldn't affect us.
Archana, we will win this case.
The evidence is in our favour.
- I know. You've messed it up again!
- Okay, I'll do it again.
No, you just don't know how to!
- I keep telling you.
- Tea for the ladies!
Should I do your braids?
Okay, come.
Let's see!
Thank God!
Thank God, there is evidence.
But that will only establish the crime...
Not the punishment.
Why?
Well...
If I throw this hot tea on you
it would be a crime under
the IPC Section 326.
Right.
And if I throw acid on you instead,
it's still Section 326!
Got it?
Whether it's hot tea or acid
the sentence for causing
'Grevious Injury' is only 2-7 years.
That's the maximum punishment
you get in that Section.
So Babbu would get a maximum
sentence of 7 years.
And within that, he'll surely spend
4 years going in and out on bail.
For good conduct, he could get
6 months to a year shaved off.
So in effect, he'll probably serve
about 2 years in prison.
So not even 7...
The punishment for destroying
someone's entire life is just 2 years.
Hello...
Hello Malti, how are you?
I'm okay, Didi.
What's happened?
Is your phone not working?
Your first hearing is right here.
I know.
Okay, let's go over this again.
The Defense Lawyer will say that
you never saw Babbu's face...
I did.
He'll say - 'Then why didn't you name
him in your initial statement?'
I did. No one understood...
What if the Defense says that Rajesh
threw the acid. What will you say?
Malti?
Rajesh is my boyfriend.
He was...
Why would he do such a thing?
We were just friends.
But according to the police, you gave a
statement saying Malti is your girlfriend.
I never said that.
Your Honour, please note.
Your Honour, the witness is recanting
from his earlier statement.
You know Malti, don't you?
Yes. We used to go to school together.
She studied at the girls' school nearby.
And do you recognize this man?
No.
He's not going to break.
But the police say you gave
a statement saying
that my client Bashir Khan
threw acid on Malti?
Look carefully...
I gave no such statement.
Your Honour, no more questions.
Your Honour, I would like to present
the logs of the search conducted
at Ms. Shaikh's home, from
the police case diary.
I don't know how this stole
came into my house.
The police probably planted it in
my trunk. I wasn't home, you see!
But tell me, Ms. Shaikh...
if you didn't do anything,
why were you absconding?
I... I got scared.
Your Honour, if Ms. Shaikh is innocent,
she should have nothing to fear.
Objection, Your Honour.
One cannot establish someone as guilty
on the basis of their emotional state.
She has falsely accused Babbu!
I thought she might get me framed too.
Then why does her stole
have acid burns on it?
Hey, can't you hear?
That stole doesn't belong to me!
What about her hands, Your Honour?
They belong to her, right?
These are pictures of Parveen's hands,
about four weeks after the attack.
They're oil burns. From long ago...
Got them while frying food.
Your Honour, the Forensics
report clearly states
that the scars were caused by
a corrosive substance.
Hot oil isn't a corrosive
substance, Your Honour.
But the report doesn't specifically say
that they're acid burns either.
Your Honour, the facts are
being twisted!
The forensic report clearly
states that the burns
were caused by a strong
corrosive substance
such as HCl - Hydrochloric Acid,
HNO3 - Nitric Acid or
H2SO4 - Sulphuric Acid.
What did you use?
- Objection, Your Honour.
- Objection sustained.
- Miss Bajaj, please?
- Sorry, Your Honour.
Your Honour, the report also confirms
that these burns are recent, not old.
We'll discuss this point further,
at the next hearing.
Your Honour.
Don't worry. I'll make a
request for bail.
My client needs to attend to
an important family matter...
He's been in jail for 3 months.
- He is asking for bail.
- I understand.
Your Honour, please reject
this bail request.
The accused is fighting
a charge of acid throwing.
It could have taken my client's life.
He is facing 307 - Attempt to Murder.
Your client is sitting right here!
Your Honour, how is 307 valid?
Please, Your Honour.
Can you provide a surety
of 100000 rupees?
Yes, Your Honour.
Okay, let me take it under consideration.
Should I burn it?
How are you, Rohit?
Mummy!
Your brother Babbu's getting married.
Do come.
He remembers you a lot.
He'll rot in hell, the scoundrel!
What is he trying to prove,
getting married?
Enough now...
He's only got bail. He hasn't
been acquitted.
He'll be back in jail soon enough.
Right, Archana Madam?
This is the second time he's got bail.
Now until the verdict is out,
it won't be easy to send him back to jail.
It would be so good if
Acid stopped being sold.
If you didn't have it,
you wouldn't throw it.
I agree that merely banning the sale
of acid won't curb the crime.
Hence, the first plea in Malti's Petition
is an amendment in the IPC.
Ms Bajaj, Acid attacks are
undoubtedly a heinous crime.
But what you're asking for... how will
you achieve this on the ground?
I don't know how practical
a blanket ban is.
Your Lordship, if we can ban the
sale of eggs in Rishikesh...
Why can't we ban the sale of Acid
in the country?
Your Lordship, it's very easy
to throw acid...
And just as difficult to
get the attacker punished.
Because Section 326 - Grievous injury
doesn't take cognizance
of this crime's severity.
These sections are outdated.
I urge this court to amend
the appropriate sections
according to the intensity of the crime.
Fair enough.
But we cannot take this decision
without the Government's approval.
Which we all know is not the
easiest task in the world.
This bench admits this plea.
Let's revisit this plea
in three months' time.
And let's include the Solicitor General
at the next hearing.
Whenever we talk about
violence on women
why do we instantly ask
for a change in laws?
We all know that just changing laws
won't change people's mindsets.
Will banning knives stop murders?
You're right.
Which is why, along with amending the law,
we are also asking for a ban on the
unchecked sale of Acid. Next.
But can this really be enforced?
Can a household item like this
be banned instantly?
Industrial use makes sense.
Why do you need Acid at home?
How do you clean your toilets?
Yes, asking for a complete ban on
Acid is ambitious, but also important.
- Next.
- Ms Malti...
It's being said that your attacker
knew you for many years.
He even wanted to marry you,
and you met him often too.
We were family friends.
We all knew him.
If he was a family friend,
known to you...
Why would he suddenly attack
you with acid, for no reason?
What does that mean?
Is it her fault?
Ms Malti, your boyfriend Rajesh has
claimed that you were just friends.
Is that true?
I... I haven't spoken to Rajesh...
Malti, can you show us your face...
So that the public can see
the severity of the attack?
What plans of marriage? I mean,
have you thought of settling down?
What kind of questions are these?
How many more surgeries?
Depends. Five to seven.
Does it frighten you?
Not as much as Court.
Actually this surgery is special.
We'll take skin from your back
and graft it on your face.
So the skin looks even.
From here to here, we'll use
a single piece of skin.
One even skin, all over.
This should really improve your face.
Doctor, can you fix my ear this time?
This surgery is a little specialized, dear.
We'll work on the ear
the next time?
You wait outside, Malti...
I'll just come.
- Is this going to be complicated?
- It is a complicated procedure.
The surgery will be completed
in 10 days and 3 stages.
Malti will be in the ICU for 5 days.
And she will be on a ventilator.
It is complicated,
but it will be worth it.
I'll serve Shiraz Ma'am
mangoes and come.
You're serving her the same
mangoes that she gave us?
You could have bought some sweets?
She passed somehow!
Thank God! They might not
have given her a fourth chance!
Now... College?
High School is enough for us.
I want money.
I don't have any. Go home.
Everything is for Malti...
Right?
Go home. There's a box in the cupboard.
You'll find 100 rupees in it.
How did you not realize that
your son is so unwell?
Intestinal TB. Second stage.
Meenakshi has come from
Archana Ma'am's office.
- I need to go sign some papers.
- What papers?
For the case.
Which case is this now?
Don't start off, Mummy.
Don't we have enough troubles already?
Your brother's sick,
Dad's an alcoholic...
And you want to save the nation!
Do you want to run around
courts all your life?
Only the privileged
can afford to do this.
You're leaving now?
It will be dark by the time you return...
So?
What worse can happen now?
She's angry, right?
Let her be. She's worried.
You focus on your work.
After four years, we have finally got
a hearing at the Sessions Court.
Barely two weeks are left...
Archana Ma'am, I want
to ask you something.
Yes...
This case - it'll be over now, right?
Why, what's happened?
Actually, Mummy's right.
These legal battles, the media...
I don't think I can do this.
Okay... then who will?
I mean, there are so many
problems at home...
Malti... Do you know why Babbu
has been granted bail again?
He is going to have a child.
After the Sessions Court,
it will be the High Court.
After that, the Supreme Court.
There's a long way ahead.
Get used to the noise.
We will have a lot of fun without you!
I hate you.
Bye.
I don't get it, you know.
Why was Malti tolerating him?
She should've just slapped him!
If she had slapped him and then
Bashir Khan had thrown acid on her,
you would've said - Malti shouldn't
have aggravated him.
Broken beer bottle with acid stains.
For the beer bottle, the Defense will
surely say it was planted by the police.
In such cases, always keep
supporting evidence ready.
Babbu's confession...
Which the Defense claims, was
extracted via third degree treatment.
Then comes, Malti's statement.
And why is Malti's statement
so important to this case?
Not you. Sukesh?
Ma'am, because in this case the
victim herself is an eyewitness?
Hence the court will give maximum
weightage to the victim's testimony.
Very good!
And finally, our trump card...
Babbu's cellphone record.
At the time of the attack
the accused's phone was at the
crime spot. At Mayur Market.
Again. Evidence will
establish the crime.
We need to focus on the sentence.
Not 326, we must constantly
underline Section 307.
In light of the evidence presented,
this Court pronounces
Bashir Khan aka Babbu guilty
under IPC Sections 307 and 120B.
For being an accomplice to a horrific crime
like an Acid attack,
the Court also pronounces Parveen Shaikh
guilty under IPC Sections 307 and 120B.
The Court sentences Bashir Khan to
10 years of rigorous imprisonment
and a fine of 75000 rupees.
And Parveen Shaikh to 7 years
of rigorous imprisonment
and a fine of 50000 rupees.
Your Honour, you know 10 years
is not enough...
Ms Bajaj, I thought you'd be happy.
10 years for an Acid attack
is unprecedented.
Pardon me, Your Honour but this
case was so severe that...
Your Honour, my client Bashir Khan
would like to appeal for leniency.
He is also ready to give the complainant
100000 rupees as compensation.
And... We'll meet in High Court,
Miss Bajaj.
This judgement is historic...
For the first time in
an Acid attack case,
a Sessions Court has given
a 10-year prison sentence.
Now we hope
that our Petition comes up
for hearing soon
and the laws are amended as well.
Ms Malti, Bashir Khan offered you
100000 rupees as compensation.
Why did you refuse it?
Accepting his money would
mean forgiving him.
He scarred my face...
Not my spirit.
The dawn, once grey and pale
Now awash with a gleaming ray
The breath, stifled in knots
Now beginning to exhale...
Beginning to exhale...
Open up... And begin...
A new sky is unfolding within...
Open up... And begin...
A new sky is unfolding within...
Look, it's simple.
There's a whole universe out there
beyond social media.
We want to mobilize the youth...
Let's go to Delhi University.
Gargi, Miranda House...
Let's go to girls' colleges and talk
directly to the young women.
We could also perform street plays
to stir up the people.
This isn't enough.
We need more money.
Look, we can't spend more than
twenty thousand on any campaign.
Amol has put a cap on the spends.
Amol Sir. You need to crouch lower.
I can still see your ears.
Hmm... Did you say something?
The same old story again!
If we advertise poorly, our
communication won't be strong.
So be it.
Those who want to contribute,
will do so because of our intention;
not the fancy designs of our campaign.
And the focus should be on the
cause... right Manish?
No... I mean, Malti has a point too.
Our communication needs to
keep up with the times.
And, to bring in funders,
our messaging must be crisp.
Look, this money is first and foremost
for the Acid Survivors.
We can get donations by posting
on social media too.
Manish, send me Suresh Paswan's
bank details-
- I need more funds!
- You won't get more!
Campaign with the resources
we have, or let it be!
We've collected 60000 rupees
for Chitra and Suman.
Both the sisters are admitted
in hospital.
We've organized accommodation
for their family too.
The operation must happen
as soon as possible.
We need to go to the hospital
and pressurize the authorities.
We need some sensible volunteers...
A team of four must be present
at the hospital in advance.
Malti, your phone has a camera,
right? You can record on it.
Sorry Deepa, I'm going home.
Hello Mummy... I'll be late today.
Again?
Aren't your hassles in court enough?
Now this too!
Mummy, two sisters were attacked. They've
come all the way from Patna to Delhi.
Got your salary?
It'll come.
Sister, we need to shift
them to the burn ward.
Ma'am, you're not even wearing gloves!
- I'll be back.
- Sis... Sister!
They belonged to an upper-caste.
All four...
They would taunt us
and say, 'Low-caste folk
can't be software engineers'.
They were sexually harassing us, sir...
At night, they climbed onto
the roof of our house.
It was a thatch roof,
so it gave way easily.
They had brought Acid with them...
They threw it on both of us...
The face fades
Like a fallen pawn
Like light smothered by the dark
In a splash, all erased...
Gently!
A smile defaced
Wiped out of sight
In the sprinkle of a spark
In a splash, all erased...
We reached Patna hospital somehow...
And the guard shooed us away.
He said - "This hospital isn't
for low-caste people like you."
Had they admitted me...
my face could have been saved!
A handful of darkness
The eyes are intent
A smile defaced
Wiped out of sight
In the sprinkle of a spark
In a splash, all erased...
Everything was erased...
"Such monsters should be killed."
"Stop Acid Violence - Chhaaya,
you are doing a great job."
"Congratulations to Chitra and
Suman for successful surgery."
Wow! Show me...
How many likes did it get?
Over a thousand.
Oh my God!
"How can one human being do this
to another human being?"
"This is bar... baric."
Barbaric.
Bar-baric means?
Hmm... Very bad, I guess.
"These girls look like freaks."
"Their lives are completely ruined."
Malti?
Your face looks so good.
I want mine to be like that too.
We'll get surgery done for you.
Gradually, it will improve.
How many surgeries
have you had?
- Seven.
- Seven!
How? I'm still struggling to manage
money for my second.
You'll get 300000 from the
Victim compensation scheme...
Oh yes! This time I'll get a face
exactly like Alia Bhatt!
But when will the money come?
I had asked Amol Sir.
He snapped at me, and how!
"Get lost! Going on about
the compensation scheme!"
"Am I the government?
How would I know?"
You're mad!
Only you get away with
saying anything to him.
Aren't you afraid of him?
Why should I be...
Is he the government?
The neighbours called. They're asking
us to reduce the volume.
No alcohol?
No?
That's all that is missing!
Amol Sir, where were you?
Everyone's been trying to call you.
326 A and B!
Cut the cake!
Tell me something, Ms Malti.
What's 326 A and B?
What do they mean?
Amol Sir, why are you doing this?
No, please explain to us why
we're celebrating 326's birthday.
Amol Sir, the IPC has been amended.
Acid attacks now have a
separate section under law.
Isn't that what you...
what all of us wanted?
Oh... So, the penal code has been
amended and that's enough?
The attacker will get a 10-year sentence
and the victim will get compensation?
Wow, very good!
Come on everyone... stop playing
NGO-NGO, and go home.
Our work here is done.
Now that there's a new law, the crimes
will automatically stop! Isn't it?
Acid is sold cheaper than cola
in this country.
Your Petition has been stuck for 7 years...
And you want to celebrate?
Acid is still not banned. Get it?
Amol Sir, you know
what your problem is?
You behave like you've been
attacked with acid...
But the Acid was thrown on me, not you...
And I...
...would like to party.
Don't overreact now.
Come on, Amol Sir.
Everyone is waiting for you downstairs.
Everyone is calling you and
you're sulking here. Not done.
- I don't want to come.
- How can we party without you?
According the court records,
and as far as I recall...
Two years ago, back in 2011...
this bench had put forth some directives.
Every state was asked
to submit a proposal to regulate the
sale of acid.
A period of two months was granted.
It's been two years.
So far, we haven't seen any concrete
report on the Ban or the Compensation.
Are you likely to present something today,
Mr Solicitor General?
Yes, Your Lordship.
Luckily, the Home Minister met the
concerned Secretaries of State a month ago.
There was a meeting on National Security.
We also discussed the sale of acid.
What do you mean, 'also discussed'?
Why does it sound like the government
isn't taking this issue seriously?
Apologies, Your Lordship.
That's not what I meant.
Anyway, please continue.
Your Lordship, we request the
court to grant us another date.
Why?
The Chemicals Minister
couldn't come today.
It's like we are running a school!
Why is he absent?
His son is getting married.
I'll tell you what...
If, by the next hearing,
all the States do not present
their proposals before the court...
Then this bench will not hesitate
to give a final decision on
learned counsel Ms Bajaj's petition.
- Is that clear?
- Yes Sir.
- One bottle of acid.
- Sulphuric or Hydrochloric?
Which one's deadlier?
Today, Manish from 'Stop Acid Violence'
went to a store near our office
Thirty.
and bought a bottle of acid.
No one stopped or questioned him.
Bought for just 30 rupees, this bottle
of acid stands here so innocuously...
Like it has no idea of the violence
it can unleash.
Last week at a Mumbai station
Pinky Rathore was attacked
with Acid in broad daylight.
Not a word or warning...
Someone tapped her shoulder,
hurled acid at her
and disappeared into the crowd.
The entire Chhaaya team has left for Mumbai
to stand in support of Pinky Rathore.
If you would like to help her
please contribute funds
using these bank details.
Pinky Rathore's family will be
truly grateful for your support.
Tickets, please.
We'll spark off a rebellion!
We'll whip up a furore!
Our destinies lie in our hands...
We ain't flowers but firebrands!
Yes Amol Sir...
We need to complete the formalities
according to hospital procedure.
We won't accept Pinky's body until
we meet the Chief Minister!
Her face, lungs, heart...
everything was burnt with acid.
No one came to see her.
She kept writing till her last breath,
asking just one question -
"Why did someone do this?"
Why?!
Has the Government made any decision?
Will you transfer the case to the CBI?
When will the Victim compensation
be given, Sir?
We met Pinky Rathore's family and
have given them our assurance...
To have faith in the Government.
We've assigned this case to
the Crime Branch
and we believe the attacker
will be caught soon.
Dreams and desires
Are all extinguished
The will to live
Now entirely demolished
All is scorched...
Everything is erased...
The Home Minister has announced
a compensation of 200000 rupees
for Pinky's family.
On the demand for a ban on acid,
he had no response.
What are you doing here?
Nothing, really...
We have to leave for the station.
This was Pinky's room...
You know, I actually feel
a little jealous of her...
She died...
Why jealous now?
Exactly.
She escaped the ordeal
of courts and surgeries.
Lucky.
I'll give you my sympathies
in the train.
Now come on.
Actually... I needed to talk to you.
I hope you won't get me wrong.
Okay, let's reach Delhi first.
What's the matter? Tell me...
I...
What is it?
You're not proposing to me, are you?
Sorry...
I'll have to quit this job. Babbu has
appealed in the High Court.
Mummy's always worried.
- The salary isn't paid on time...
- Even we aren't paid on time.
I know.
But my brother's hospital expenses
are so high, and...
I thought you were different
from everyone else.
- That you understood the cause.
- I do understand!
But I can't do this now...
Then what was the Petition all about?
A sham?
Let it be...
Do whatever you want.
"I thought everything
would be fine now."
"I'd earn well."
"Send you money and pay my brother
and sister's fees too..."
"And ease your burden..."
"But look what happened, Papa!"
"I just want to know who did this,
and why?"
"Papa, please appeal to the police"
"that the culprit be sentenced
to death."
"Papa, I don't care
how my face will look..."
"Just save my life, please."
"I'll work, earn and
make everything okay."
"Just save me..."
"Please get me a good doctor, Papa..."
End quote.
The letter Pinky Rathore wrote
to her parents after the attack.
Should be anytime now...
Your Lordship, studying the background
of acid victims and survivors reveals
that most of the attacks
were on girls
who wanted to study
or make a career.
Whenever a girl tried to
better her social status,
she was punished for it.
She was shown her place
by dousing her with Acid.
What drives such an act
is impossible to explain.
But to regulate the sale of Acid,
is possible for this bench.
We cannot bring Pinky back...
But we can definitely try
to ensure that other girls
don't suffer like Pinky and Malti did.
IT'S BANNED!
Ms Malti, Ms Archana...
Thanks to your Petition
today the sale of acid has been
regulated across the country.
How do you feel?
The judgement has arrived.
Archana Ma'am has called us.
Now can we celebrate the ban?
A retort for every quip
Turn there...
Smiling away the pinpricks too
It's been regulated, not banned.
These ties run free of knots
It's the words that entangle you
But... haven't you resigned?
Well, Chhaaya needs me right now.
So much they manage to say
What are you doing, man?
Here! Turn here!
Now take the next turn.
What needs to be said
Is what's left to say...
I need to send an interview byte
to the channel.
- The camera operator's busy.
- Is that why I've been called?
Fine! I'll record it myself!
Take this turn ahead...
Damnit! Stop it, man.
Stop!
There's a celebrity travelling with us.
And you have no clue
which way you're going!
Riding a rickshaw and you don't even
know the routes.
Twenty's enough!
Don't you know 'Left' and 'Right'?
Wasted my time with your
'turn here - turn there'!
Move your foot!
Listen... I'm heading to Uncle's.
Ma is waiting there.
Please come forward,
Honourable Ms Malti!
Ready?
A bit to the side...
The other side!
Don't you know 'Left' and 'Right'?
Come on, it wasn't that funny.
Okay fine - move to the right.
What are you doing?
Let it be! I can't do it
in front of you.
Why? Come on, let's start.
The first question...
The Supreme Court has ruled that the sale
of Acid must be regulated in the country.
Are you happy with
the court's decision?
Yes, I'm happy.
There's a long fight still ahead.
You can't look so happy!
But I am happy, what do I do?
Sorry...
The sale of Acid has been
regulated, not banned.
Now all schools, shops,
industries etc.
have to register the sale of Acid
or else pay a heavy fine.
So Acid hasn't been banned.
It will still be sold.
After a struggle of seven years,
we've only won half the battle.
We still have a long way to go.
But Malti, your Petition has initiated
a significant step in
Acid Violence Legislation.
The foundation of this Petition
is Archana Bajaj Ma'am.
Right from the outset, she has
believed that to stop this crime
we need to understand its roots.
Malti, those who threw acid on you...
Do they know that you are
spearheading this campaign?
I don't know if they're aware of it.
It's good if they are.
She is very good.
She is.
Why did you refuse Alka's offer?
Jeetu, you go... I'll manage.
This is a great chance for you...
To become a TV anchor.
People will know you, and through you,
they'll know of our cause.
But I am working for the cause here.
But we can't pay your salary on time.
Then you have problems at home.
You know... it's all before you...
Ever since I quit journalism, I haven't
been able to buy myself a new shirt.
This path isn't easy.
I feel uncomfortable
in front of the camera.
You're not uncomfortable at all.
You say whatever you like,
you do as you please.
Did I say something wrong?
No... but that day outside the court?
The entire media's gaze is on you.
You can't just jump up
and hug anyone!
I didn't hug just 'anyone'.
I hugged someone who was special...
This stuff belongs in the movies.
We're here to work...
let's stick to that.
If someone loves you silently,
why is it a problem?
You carry on with your work.
In the shade of a shared pain
They embraced each other
Who once were strangers
Now walk on together
So much they've managed to say
So much has now been heard
Only the eyes will speak further
What remains unsaid
What remains unsaid
Is what's left to say...
Malti... we're ready.
Hello and welcome to
The Delhi Daily.
I'm Malti Agarwal, and today we'll talk
about Child Rights and Protection...
Good for her. But she still
doesn't answer her phone.
- She doesn't think much of you...
- Whatever.
Okay, should I call her about
the High Court hearing, or will you?
You do it.
Sister.
Come on, eat something.
This is a good hospital...
Trust me, Rohit will soon
be back home, healthy.
Salary...
Hello...
Malti Madam... You've become such a star.
You never answer your phone!
Come on, Archana Ma'am...
Felt good to see you on TV.
You made me proud!
It's all because of you
Archana Ma'am.
I had completely given up.
All the TV interviews have made you
a smart speaker!
Okay, the High Court's date
is drawing close.
These could be the final hearings.
You're so busy these days,
you may not remember.
How can I forget...
Well, I'll be happy if you do.
Babbu's shadow has followed you
for too many years now.
I thought you said you
don't like expensive gifts.
You alone have the right?
To love 'silently'?
Will you take me for the hearing?
I can't just take anyone now, can I?
Well, I'm not just 'anyone' now, am I?
You said it yourself...
I'm 'special'.
I want to see him.
What's there to see?
I want to know why he did it.
If you figure it out,
explain it to me too...
There's evil in each of us...
that is certain.
But how does one succumb
to evil so completely
that they totally lose control?
Because it's also certain that
Acid poisons the mind first...
then comes into the hands.
"There was a glass in the hand,
and acid in the glass..."
This detail isn't present
in any of Ms Malti's statements.
She said this for the first time
in the court.
Your Lordship, the Defense Counsel
is overlooking
Malti's physical and mental state
at the time.
In such a condition,
it's difficult to give a statement
or remember every small detail.
This medical report states exactly that,
Your Lordship.
Alright, fine. I assume she was better
when she appeared in court.
In court, Ms Malti testified that
my client had worn a helmet.
Then how did she recognize
his face so clearly?
The helmet didn't have a visor, because
of which the attacker's face was visible.
Also, my client knew Babbu.
He wasn't a stranger.
So it was easy to identify him.
The Sessions Court records also state
that Malti did not identify my
client in her first statement.
She named my client only in
her second statement.
Your Lordship, the Sessions Court
records clearly state
that Malti named the defendant
in the hospital,
but no one understood it
as her speech wasn't clear.
If my client was guilty,
why would he come to visit Malti
in the hospital after the attack?
Perhaps the defendant wanted to check
if Malti had seen him or not?
Whether she would identify him or not?
Human behaviour is unpredictable,
Your Lordship.
Two people could behave differently
in the same circumstance.
The point I am trying to make
is that Malti is the sole
eyewitness to this attack.
And there can be no stronger evidence
than her testimony itself.
And we shouldn't rely solely
on her testimony,
because she has been continuously
changing her statements.
Your Lordship, I request the court
to allow Malti to say something.
You should've let me stitch
your first outfit.
I'd have made sure it fits well.
It's Mummy's...
I used to think you're still
a little girl.
But you're quite a woman now.
I'm getting late for my tuition, Brother...
Come, I'll drop you.
- I'll manage...
- Come on, sit.
I drop your mother to the
market too... Come.
Hey, this is really spicy!
Bye.
Okay, no further from here.
Just till there.
Please?
Why are you walking so fast?
Slow down...
So shall we meet in the evening?
What will I say at home?
That you're going for tuitions.
Hey you! Who are you?
What's happening here?
- What's up, Uncle?
- What's up? I'll tell you what's up!
Brother! Brother, please!
And you! Shameless!
You come home with me...
What's this... how can you force her?
You want me to show you how?
Do you?
Rajesh! You go...
'Rajesh, you go'...
So much concern for him?
Sorry, Brother.
Get lost, dipshit!
- Don't be seen around this colony again!
- Brother, please!
Should I tell your father
about your antics?
- Don't tell him... please...
- He'll break your legs. Understand?
Don't tell Papa... Brother, please.
I'm not your 'brother'... got it?!
I'm NOT your brother!
Is there any dessert?
Have sugar. It's the month's end,
we can't afford dessert.
'I Love You'
Malti?
Malti...
You quit school?
I told you, you must complete
your studies anyhow.
Shiraz Aunty...
You can open up so many
avenues for yourself, Malti...
It's not what you think.
Come. Let me show you...
The classes begin on the 1st.
The bookshop was just an excuse.
I'll be India's next Idol, Shiraz Aunty!
'I want to marry you.
Give me an answer now.'
- Bye.
- Take care.
Yes?
Hello?
You have big dreams, don't you?
What?
Want to make your parents proud?
What?
You!
Upholding the lower court's decision...
this court rejects the Defense's appeal.
And under Section 307,
sentences the guilty Bashir Khan to
10 years of rigorous imprisonment
and orders him to pay a compensation
of 300000 rupees.
Old paths long and lost
Have now found a new way
What remains unsaid
Is what's left to say...
Only the eyes will speak further now...
What remains unsaid
Is what's left to say...
- Let's take a selfie!
- Come.
Thanks, I'm posting this!
You look so pretty!
Come take a selfie with me.
Wait, wait... me too!