Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN) - Some 153 people fell victim to acid attacks in 2010 across the country, according to a report, prepared by Acid Survivors Foundation (ASF).
The number stood at 150 in 2009 after fewer acid attacks in the preceding seven years, the ASF said, adding that the year 2002 saw the highest number of acid victims -- 490.
The disclosed the record at press conference held at the Jatiya Press Club in the capital Dhaka on Thursday.
ASF executive director Manira Rahman said that on the whole, counts of violence against women have increased in 2010 and it is alarming that the number of acid victims has also risen.
The main reason behind acid attacks is land dispute, a cause that has decreased in 2010, Manira said. But attacks for refusing marriage proposals or sexual relationship have increased by 22 percent, she added.
BBN/SI/AD-11Feb11-12:28 am (BST)