Acid attacks are among the most brutal forms of violence -acts that not only cause deep physical harm but also leave lifelong emotional and psychological wounds. Survivors of such attacks face unimaginable challenges, from long-term medical care and legal battles to social ostracism and economic hardship. What is Acid Attack? An acid attack, medically and legally termed vitriolage, involves the deliberate use of corrosive substances to harm another individual. Perpetrators often throw or pour acid onto a victim's face or body, intending to cause severe injury, disfigurement, psychological trauma, or death. The effects are catastrophic: Physical injuries include deep burns, loss of vision, and permanent disfigurement. Psychological impact includes trauma, depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation. Social consequences include stigma, isolation, and barriers to education or employment. Acid attacks are not impulsive acts-they are often premeditated and stem from a deep-rooted culture of gender-based violence and control. Why Do Acid Attacks Happen? Though the motives vary, many stem from: Rejection of romantic or marriage proposals Domestic violence and dowry demands Property or inheritance disputes Jealousy or professional rivalry A desire to control or punish Women and girls are disproportionately targeted, making acid violence a tool of misogyny and control in a patriarchal society. A Disturbing Pattern: Crime Statistics According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB): 2017: 244 cases 2018: 228 cases 2019: 240 cases 2020: 182 cases 2021: 176 cases 2022: 202 cases 2023: 207 cases These figures indicate that despite legal reforms and public awareness, acid attacks continue to be a serious and persistent form of gender-based violence in India. Responding to an Acid Attack: What You Must Do Immediate First Aid Steps (Do's) Flush the burn with clean, running water immediately for at least 30 minutes. Do not delay. Avoid splashing unaffected areas-focus water directly on the burn. Remove any contaminated clothing, jewelry, or accessories carefully to prevent further injury. Call emergency services - Dial 112 or 108. Cover the wound loosely with a clean, non-stick cloth or sterile gauze. Keep the victim calm. Reassure them and prevent panic. If possible, preserve the acid container or take note of the substance used. Discourage crowds and maintain the victim's privacy and dignity. Transport the victim to a hospital immediately, even if the burn appears minor. What NOT to Do (Don'ts) Do not apply any creams, oils, butter, or ointments. Do not rub or touch the burn. Do not delay medical attention. Do not try to neutralize the acid with other chemicals. Do not use ice or very cold water-it can worsen the injury. Do not feed the victim if they are unconscious Do not pull off clothing stuck to the skin. Legal Protections and Rights Acid attacks are not only heinous acts of violence-they are serious criminal offenses under Indian law. Survivors are entitled to robust legal protections, free medical care, and legal aid. The laws ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and survivors receive support to rebuild their lives with dignity. Relevant Law: Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 The Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, replaces the Indian Penal Code and strengthens legal provisions for acid attack cases. Acid attack is now one of the severe offences where stringent punishment is prescribed for this category of crimes. Grievous Hurt by Use of Acid As per Section 124 of BNS, if any person voluntarily causes injury by throwing or administering acid or any other corrosive/ burning substance, they can be punished under this law. The harm may include permanent or partial damage, deformity, maims, disfigurement, disability, burn injuries, or even rendering someone into a permanent vegetative state. This is one of the serious offences as per Section 43 of BNSS as well where such offenders are arrested and kept handcuffed. Punishment: This is one of the severe offences which is in the category of cognizable and non-bailable offence ie. FIR will be registered and after the arrest the person can not get bail without order of Session Judge. Imprisonment for a minimum of 10 years, extendable up to life imprisonment, and A fine that is mandatory and must be just and reasonable, directly payable to the survivor to cover medical expenses and related costs for the treatment of the victim. Attempt to Commit an Acid Attack Even the attempt of acid attack is a serious criminal offense. Punishment: This is also one of the severe offences which is in the category of cognizable and non-bailable offence ie. FIR will be registered and after the arrest the person can not get bail without order of Session Judge. Imprisonment for a minimum term of 5 years and upto 7 years, and A fine, the amount of which is determined by the gravity of the attempt and its consequences. Definition of "Acid" Under Law The BNS broadens the definition of acid to include: "Any substance which has acidic or corrosive character or burning nature, that is capable of causing bodily injury leading to scars or disfigurement or temporary or permanent disability" This ensures that all forms of harmful corrosive substances-beyond just sulfuric, hydrochloric, or nitric acid-are covered under the law. Action against the Public Servant, if fails to register FIR for acid attack As per Section 199 of BNS, if a public servant fails to record any information related to acid attack shall be liable for a rigorous imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than six months but which may extend to two years, and shall also be liable to fine. This is a cognizable and non-compoundable offence i.e. the FIR may be filed against such officer and it cannot be compromised. Medical Treatment as a Legal Right Under the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, acid attack survivors have the right to seek immediate and free medical care, without any procedural delays or financial burden. Section 397 of BNSS- Emergency Medical Treatment All public and private hospitals are legally bound to provide free and immediate treatment to acid attack victims. Hospitals must not refuse treatment or delay assistance, regardless of the victim's financial status. Victims covered under Section 124 of BNS (acid attack survivors) fall directly under this protective provision. Hospitals are also required to inform the police immediately upon treating such victims Section 200 of BNS-Punishment for Non-treatment of victim If In-charge of a hospital or any other person fails to comply with their duty to provide free emergency treatment to victims: Punishment: One may face imprisonment of up to 1 year, or Fine, or Both, depending on the severity of the violation. This provision holds both government and private healthcare institutions accountable, and reinforces that medical care is not just a moral obligation but a legal right of the survivor. Free Legal Aid -A Lifeline for Survivors Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, especially for those recovering from trauma. To ensure that no survivor is denied justice due to financial hardship: Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 All women, regardless of their income or social status, are entitled to free legal aid services through District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs), State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs), and the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). Acid attack survivors can access: Legal advice, Representation in court, Assistance with compensation claims, Guidance during investigation and trial Free legal aid plays a critical role in ensuring survivors can assert their rights, seek compensation, and bring perpetrators to justice -without facing legal or financial barriers. Compensation to victims of Acid attack Section 396 of BNSS- Victim Compensation Scheme As per Ministry of Home Affairs advisory dated 20.04.2015, A minimum compensation of 3 lakh is to be paid to victims of acid attack through DLSA/NALSA Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) Since, 08.10.2016, a financial assistance of Rs. 1 lakh is provided to the female acid attack victims from Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF). In case of male victims, financial assistance upto Rs. 1 lakh is granted, depending upon scale of injuries and other criterion. All the compensation under Section 396 or PMNRF shall be in addition to the fine or compensation paid by the accused to the victim as per the directions of the court. Acid attack has been kept under the list of disabilities therefore the benefits all the schemes related to disabled persons are applicable in case of acid attack victims. Compensation Schemes for victims Acid attack survivors in India are entitled to financial compensation from the government to help them recover and rebuild their lives. This compensation is provided through schemes such as the Victim Compensation Scheme (VCS), governed by Section 357A of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and 395 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. The amount of compensation depends upon the severity of the injuries. The financial support is meant to cover medical treatment, surgeries, psychological counselling, rehabilitation, and basic living expenses if the survivor is unable to work. To apply, the survivor or their representative needs to approach the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) and submit necessary documents like the FIR (First Information Report), medical reports, and a written application. The DLSA evaluates the case and recommends a suitable compensation amount. Survivors can also receive free legal aid to help with the application process. This compensation plays a vital role in helping survivors regain stability and live with dignity after such a traumatic experience. Source : NCW's RECLAIMING LIFE - Rights, Laws and HOPE for Acid Attack Survivors