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Assault by burning in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Kishore Kumar Das1, M Sazzad Khondokar, M Quamruzzaman
1Burn Unit, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh. kishorek50@hotmail.com
Summary
Assault by burning in Dhaka is a serious issue, predominantly affecting females due to dowry disputes and marital conflicts. Concentrated sulfuric acid was the most common chemical agent used in these attacks.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Medicine
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Assault by burning is a significant issue in Dhaka, Bangladesh, with diverse causes and motives.
- A study reviewed 311 intentional burn cases from Dhaka Medical College Hospital (2004-2011).
- Female victims constituted the majority (68%), often targeted due to dowry-related issues and marital disputes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the patterns, causes, and outcomes of intentional burn assaults in Dhaka.
- To identify common chemical agents and motives behind burn attacks.
- To highlight the complications and need for improved victim support.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective and prospective observational review of 311 intentional burn cases.
- Data collected from the Burn Unit of Dhaka Medical College Hospital.
- Analysis of victim demographics, chemical agents, motives, complications, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Concentrated sulfuric acid was the most frequent chemical agent; kerosene was used in 78 cases involving young females, with 97% mortality.
- Dowry-related issues were a major motive, accounting for 32% of all burn assaults.
- Disfigurement was the primary complication (4% mortality); ophthalmic injuries and psychological disturbances were common. Contact burns affected domestic servants.
Conclusions:
- Burn assaults in Dhaka are often linked to socio-cultural issues like dowry and marital discord, disproportionately affecting women.
- Urgent need for community focus on prevention, adequate medical care, victim compensation, and swift legal retribution for perpetrators.
- Ophthalmic injuries and psychological trauma are significant consequences requiring specialized care and support.
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