An acid attack survivor recently sought help from Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan after being denied a bank account due to her inability to blink during the KYC process. The survivor, Pragya, took to Twitter to express her frustration, stating that being an acid attack survivor should not prevent her from living a life with dignity.
Pragya reached out to Shah Rukh Khan’s NGO, Meer Foundation, and requested their assistance in making the world more inclusive for acid attack survivors. She highlighted the injustice of being denied a bank account simply because she cannot blink for the KYC process. Pragya also filed an online petition to draw attention to the challenges faced by individuals with facial disfigurements or eye problems, emphasizing that their lack of ability to blink should not hinder them from opening a bank account in their own name.
While Shah Rukh Khan is yet to respond to Pragya’s plea, the acid attack survivor’s story has shed light on an important issue affecting thousands of people. Facial recognition software, which often relies on blinking for verification, poses a significant limitation for individuals with specific disabilities or disfigurements.
Pragya’s struggle highlights the need for more inclusive practices to ensure economic equity for all individuals, regardless of their physical appearance or abilities. Being denied access to essential services such as opening a bank account only further marginalizes acid attack survivors and others facing similar challenges.
As Shah Rukh Khan continues to promote his upcoming film, ‘Jawan’, Pragya’s plea serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing societal barriers and creating a more inclusive world for everyone. While awaiting a response from the actor, Pragya’s story has resonated with people worldwide, drawing attention to the discrimination faced by acid attack survivors and the need for change.
This incident raises questions about the limitations of facial recognition technology and the potential biases it may perpetuate. It also highlights the importance of considering the unique needs and experiences of individuals with disabilities when implementing such systems.
Pragya’s brave stance has ignited a conversation about the rights of acid attack survivors and the necessity of removing barriers that hinder their integration into society. Her petition and plea to Shah Rukh Khan’s NGO have brought this issue to the forefront, encouraging a more inclusive and compassionate approach towards individuals facing such challenges.
As we eagerly await Shah Rukh Khan’s response, Pragya’s story serves as a reminder that progress towards equality and inclusivity requires collective efforts and awareness.