Acid attacks in India
Why in news?
Acid attacks in India involve throwing corrosive substances causing severe burns, disfigurement, or disability, primarily targeting women, with NCRB data showing 207 cases in 2023 (up from 202 in 2022), 106 in 2025 so far (led by West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh), and a general decline from peaks like 244 in 2017.
Landmark case and IPC changes
- The leading case is Laxmi v. Union of India & Others, where a PIL by survivor Laxmi prompted the Court to address rising acid attacks and lack of specific law.
- Following the Court’s intervention, Parliament inserted Sections 326A and 326B IPC to define “acid attack” and “attempt to throw acid” with minimum 10 years’ imprisonment (extendable to life) for causing hurt by acid and 5–7 years for attempt, plus fine.
Regulation of acid sale
- The Court directed all States/UTs to frame or strengthen rules under the Poisons Act, 1919 to strictly regulate retail sale of acid and other corrosives.
- Over‑the‑counter sale of acid was effectively banned: only licensed sellers can sell, they must keep a detailed register of buyers, buyers must give identity proof and purpose, and unaccounted stock can invite penalty (often cited as fine up to ₹50,000).
Compensation and rehabilitation
- The Supreme Court mandated that every acid attack victim must receive a minimum compensation of ₹3 lakh from the concerned State: ₹1 lakh within 15 days of the incident coming to the notice of authorities, and the remaining ₹2 lakh within two months.
- Later judgments, such as Parivartan Kendra v. Union of India, reiterated that these directions are a baseline and stressed adequate rehabilitation including medical care, legal aid, and social support.
Medical treatment and hospital duties
- The Court directed that no hospital, including private hospitals, can refuse treatment to acid attack victims, and that full medical assistance (first‑aid, emergency care, subsequent specialized treatment) must be provided.
- It emphasized free treatment for survivors in government and certain private facilities, including medicines, food, and reconstructive surgeries, with States responsible for ensuring compliance through schemes such as NALSA’s “Legal Services to Victims of Acid Attacks” and related advisories.
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