Maimed, third generation victims struggle for justice

BHOPAL: Hit by the Bhopal gas disaster, that took place 32 years ago in the form of leakage of methyl isocyanate (MIC) from Union Carbide factory, the third generation victims of the tragedy are demanding continuation of research into the aftereffects and more compensation. The tragedy that killed thousands and left lakhs maimed have had its toll on successive generations.
As predicted by researchers from across the world, the impact of MIC exposure has affected the third generation of victims.Some of them shared their story of struggle and helplessness with TOI. Shifan Khan, 14, said, "It has been a long fight. Compensation should be given to all gas victims. We are suffering due to exposure to the lethal gas our parents had 32 years ago."
Affected by muscular dystrophy and unable to walk properly, Shifan is aware of the gas disaster and how it has affected families and generations. "We go every year with Nani "Rasheeda Bee" to light candles and ask government to take care of us, too. I can't write, but if given a chance will fight for compensation for the victims," he said.
Shifan's mother Sadia, who was 6 at the time of tragedy, had recounted about the midnight horror of 1984 in detail to him. He shares the stories with his friends at Chingari Trust, a home run by Rasheed Bee, who has been fighting for cause of gas victims. The disability has not let down Shifan's spirits and he says he is like any other normal person and is studying in Class 9. He loves playing games on smartphone and laptop. Like him, are his two friends Zaid and Mannan.
Zaid, also 14, studying in Class 6 said, "I remember learning about gas tragedy from my parents and my friends. We go for candle march since past many years."
Mannan, 14, said, "I never asked my family but know why I am like this. It was a disastrous gas leakage. My parents are worried about my future and how I will work. Annual candle march held on gas disaster anniversary unites all of us."