An acid attack changed Resham Fatma's life when she was just 17 years old.
It left her with severe injuries, years of medical treatment and a future that suddenly looked uncertain. But it did not end her ambitions.
More than a decade later, Resham Fatma has become the first Indian acid attack survivor to receive the prestigious Chevening Scholarship.
She is set to pursue a Master's degree in Human Rights at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), one of the world's leading universities.
Her journey is not only about surviving violence. It is about rebuilding a life through education, perseverance and public service.
A Student With A Dream Of Public Service
Resham Fatma grew up in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, in a modest household. Her father, Mohammad Shamim, worked as a tailor, and education was always at the centre of her aspirations.
As a school student, she dreamed of becoming an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer. She wanted to work in public service and contribute to creating a more equal society.
That dream survived even after one of the most difficult moments of her life.
The Acid Attack That Changed Her Life
In 2014, when she was 17, Resham Fatma was attacked with acid, suffering severe burns to her face and body.
The attack led to multiple surgeries and a long period of physical and emotional recovery. Yet she refused to let the incident define her future.
Instead of abandoning her education, she returned to her studies and continued preparing for competitive examinations.
A year later, in 2015, she received the Bharat Award under the National Bravery Awards, recognising her courage and determination after the attack.
Continuing Education After Survival
Recovery was only one part of Resham's journey.
She continued to focus on higher education while also speaking about the barriers faced by acid attack survivors. From access to education and employment to social acceptance, she has consistently highlighted the challenges many survivors continue to face.
Her story has become a reminder that survivors deserve opportunities based on their abilities rather than being judged by their appearance.
The UP PCS Examination Controversy
Resham Fatma made headlines again in 2021 after alleging harassment during the Uttar Pradesh Provincial Civil Services (UP PCS) preliminary examination.
According to her complaint, officials at the examination centre questioned her appearance and asked her to remove the scarf she wore after surviving the acid attack.
She described the experience as distressing. Examination centre authorities denied the allegations, saying they had acted according to examination guidelines.
The incident sparked wider conversations about the treatment of candidates with visible injuries and disabilities during competitive examinations.
Making History With The Chevening Scholarship
In 2026, Resham achieved another milestone.
She became the first Indian acid attack survivor selected for the Chevening Scholarship, the UK government's flagship international scholarship programme that supports future leaders from around the world.
Through the scholarship, she will pursue a Master's degree in Human Rights at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
The Chevening Scholarship is awarded to individuals who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive change.
For Resham, the achievement represents years of resilience, hard work and an unwavering belief that education can transform lives.
What Is Resham Fatma Doing Now?
At 29, Resham Fatma is preparing to begin her studies at the London School of Economics.
She plans to specialise in Human Rights, hoping to deepen her understanding of equality, justice and inclusion while continuing to advocate for survivors of violence.
Her journey from surviving an acid attack as a teenager to studying at one of the world's leading universities stands as a powerful example of perseverance.
More than a personal achievement, Resham Fatma's story highlights how access to education and opportunity can help survivors reclaim their future and inspire others to do the same.
TL;DR | News At Glance
Who is Resham Fatma?
Resham Fatma is a 29-year-old acid attack survivor from Ranchi, Jharkhand, who became the first Indian acid attack survivor selected for the Chevening Scholarship.
What happened to Resham Fatma?
She survived an acid attack in 2014 when she was 17 years old and underwent multiple surgeries before returning to her education.
Why is Resham Fatma in the news?
She has been selected for the prestigious Chevening Scholarship and will study Human Rights at the London School of Economics.
What happened during the UP PCS examination?
In 2021, Resham alleged harassment during the UP PCS preliminary examination over the treatment she received at the examination centre. Officials denied the allegations.
What is the Chevening Scholarship?
It is the UK government's global scholarship programme that supports outstanding students with leadership potential to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
What will Resham Fatma study?
She will pursue a Master's degree in Human Rights at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).
