A week after acid attack, accused continues to remain at large

By NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: A week has passed since a jilted lover threw acid on a woman at Sunkadakatte on April 28, but the police could not arrest the accused, 27-year-old Nagesh, so far. Though the police formed 10 teams to nab him, the only headway in the probe was the recovery of his vehicle near Majestic.

Now, women activists and the public are blaming the police for their inefficiency despite the availability of modern technology.

After probing his call details, the police found that the accused had purchased a new SIM card from Byadarahalli before attacking the woman. He had discarded his old mobile phone near Hoskote in the outskirts of Bengaluru before going into hiding.

Before fleeing, Nagesh had apparently told his colleagues and friends that he was going in search of peace and would be out of the city for 20 days. He had also told them that soon they would read about him in newspapers and TV channels, police said.

The police have extended searches to neighbouring states as well as to north India.

They also released lookout notices in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu languages, requesting people to share any clue or lead regarding the accused.

Meanwhile, hospital sources said the victim has gained consciousness and is responding positively to skintransplantation.

Health Minister K. Sudhakar had visited the hospital and assured that the cost of the treatment would be borne by the government.

He has also assured of providing the woman with a suitable job once she recovers.

Bengaluru Police Commissioner Kamal Pant also met the victim on Wednesday.

If you spot the accused, call Kamakshipalya police station (080-22942517), West Division control room (080-22943232), Inspector, Kamakshipalya (9480801728) or Sub-inspector, Kamakshipalya (9448904822).