Rights of Acid Attack Survivors
Acid attacks are a severe criminal offence with strict punishment and victims are entitled to compensation and rehabilitation.
🗣️ What this means for you
Acid attacks are one of the most serious crimes. If you or someone you know has been attacked with acid or any corrosive substance, the victim is entitled to free first-aid and medical treatment at any hospital (private or government), compensation of at least ₹3 lakh (which can go up to ₹8 lakh from the state), and the attacker faces severe imprisonment. The sale of acid is also regulated.
Step-by-Step Action Plan
Call 112 or take the victim to the nearest hospital immediately — any hospital (government or private) MUST provide free first-aid.
File an FIR at the nearest police station — the police must register the FIR immediately.
Apply for compensation from the State Legal Services Authority or the District Legal Services Authority.
The state government provides interim compensation of at least ₹3 lakh and additional rehabilitation support.
Access free reconstructive surgery and medical treatment through government hospitals.
Contact Acid Survivors Foundation India or similar NGOs for support.
Apply for disability certificate for accessing government benefits and reservations.
⚖️ The Relevant Law
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 (2023)
Section 124 — Acid Attack
"Whoever causes permanent or partial damage or deformity to, or burns or maims or disfigures or disables any part or parts of the body of a person or causes grievous hurt by throwing acid on or by administering acid to that person, shall be punished with imprisonment not less than ten years which shall extend to imprisonment for life and with fine."
⚠️ Punishment / Penalty
Imprisonment not less than 10 years, extendable to life imprisonment, and fine. For attempting acid attack: imprisonment not less than 5 years, extendable to 7 years, and fine. The fine amount shall be just and reasonable and paid to the victim. Minimum compensation of ₹3 lakh from the state.
Required Documents
- 📄FIR copy
- 📄Medical reports and treatment records
- 📄Photos of injuries
- 📄Disability certificate (if applicable)
- 📄Identity proof
- 📄Compensation application to Legal Services Authority