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Critical Human Rights Violation

ACID ATTACKS

THE BURNING TRUTH

In homes, streets, and workplaces across India, a cruel form of violence continues to destroy lives. Acid attacks are one of the most brutal crimes against human dignity.

According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), 207 cases were recorded in 2023—rising from 202 in 2022. This is not just physical violence; it is a deliberate attempt to erase identity.

STOP THE VIOLENCE →READ FULL REPORT

Part 2: The Scope

Anatomy of a Crisis

Analyzing NCRB Data (2023-2025) & Survivor Impact

207

Confirmed Cases (2023)

↑ Rising Trend

1000+

Estimated Real Count

Including unreported cases

70%

Female Victims

Gender-Based Violence

16%

Conviction Rate

System Failure

High-Risk Zones

West Bengal leads the nation with 57 cases in 2023, followed by Uttar Pradesh (31), Gujarat (15), and Rajasthan (11). Urban centers like Delhi consistently report high numbers. The correlation is clear: wherever acid sale regulation is weak, attacks rise.

Why Does This Happen?

Rejection (75%): The single biggest driver. When a woman says "no" to marriage or romance, acid is used to ensure "no one else will want her."
Property Disputes: Conflicts over land or inheritance often target women as "soft targets" for revenge.
Male Entitlement: A toxic belief that men have the right to control women's bodies and choices.

SCANNING DAMAGE...

Physical & Mental Toll

Corneal BlindnessCritical

Acid dissolves the cornea, leading to irreversible blindness.

Facial DisfigurementSevere

Nose, ears, and lips can be completely destroyed.

Psychological Trauma (PTSD)Chronic

Depression, social isolation, and loss of identity.

"Survivors face 20-30 surgeries over a lifetime. Medical costs can exceed ₹50 Lakhs. Families are often pushed into crushing debt."

Part 3: The Law

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023

The legal code replacing the IPC. Current as of July 2024.

Section 124(1)

Grievous Hurt by Acid

"Whoever causes permanent or partial damage, deformity, burns, or maims... by throwing acid... shall be punished with imprisonment of not less than 10 years, extending to life."

Fine paid directly to victim

Section 124(2)

Attempt to Throw

"Whoever throws or attempts to throw acid... with intention of causing damage... shall be punished with imprisonment of 5 to 7 years."

Attempt is also a serious crime

Legal Evolution

2013: Laxmi vs. Union of India

Landmark Supreme Court judgment triggered by survivor Laxmi Aggarwal. Banned over-the-counter acid sales and mandated ID checks.

2013: Criminal Law Amendment

Acid attacks were finally recognized as a separate crime (Section 326A/B IPC) following the Justice Verma Committee report.

Compensation Directives

Supreme Court ordered minimum ₹3 Lakhs compensation (₹1 Lakh within 15 days). State governments mandated to provide FREE treatment in all hospitals.

2024: The Reality Gap

Despite laws, enforcement is weak. 649 cases are pending trial. Compensation is often delayed by years. Acid is still sold in hardware stores.

Part 4: The Barriers

Why Does It Persist?

Social Stigma

Survivors face "victim blaming." Communities often isolate them, believing they brought shame to the family. This isolation increases depression and hinders recovery.

Easy Access

Acid is used in cleaning and industry. Regulating millions of small shops is difficult. Many sellers ignore rules due to lack of inspections.

Justice Delayed

With a conviction rate of only 10-20% and trials taking 5-16 years, criminals often escape punishment while survivors lose hope.

Financial Ruin

Compensation (₹3L) covers less than 10% of actual medical costs. Families sell assets and go into debt for treatment.

Gender Power

Many women lack economic independence or legal literacy. They cannot escape threats or move away from dangerous situations.

YOUR ROLE

These barriers are man-made. They can be broken. BRAC's intervention model targets each of these failures directly.

Part 5: The Response

BRAC SHIELD PROTOCOL

Our integrated 'Five Pillars of Protection' model addresses every stage of the crisis.

1. Prevention & Awareness

Stopping the attack before it happens.

• Education: School campaigns on consent and handling rejection.

• Monitoring: Secret shopper programs to test acid sale compliance.

• Early Warning: Reporting networks for threats.

• Men's Engagement: Teaching boys about healthy masculinity.

2. Immediate Response

The critical "Golden Hour" assistance.

• 24/7 Helpline: Immediate guidance in multiple languages.

• Hospital Intake: Coordination with specialized burn units.

• Police Support: Ensuring FIRs are filed with correct sections.

• Evidence: Helping collect samples and photos.

3. Medical Rehabilitation

Rebuilding the body and mind.

• Surgery Funding: Paying for specialized reconstructive ops.

• Psychological: Trauma-informed therapy for PTSD.

• Support Groups: Peer networks for mutual healing.

• Confidence: Social reintegration training.

4. Economic Empowerment

Restoring dignity through independence.

• Skills Training: Digital marketing, tailoring, computers.

• Seed Funding: ₹10k-50k grants for starting businesses.

• Job Placement: Partnerships with inclusive companies.

• Financial Inclusion: Bank accounts and government schemes.

5. Legal Reform & Advocacy

Changing the system.

• Free Lawyers: For prosecution and civil cases.

• Compensation: Handling complex government paperwork.

• Policy Push: Advocating for fast-track courts (6 months).

• Public Litigation: filing PILs to enforce laws.

Part 6: The Transformation

Eliminating acid attacks creates ripples of change. It is not just about one survivor; it is about building a safer India.

Survivor Leaders

Survivors become entrepreneurs and advocates, challenging stigma and proving resilience.

Safer Communities

Strong responses deter attackers. Education changes youth attitudes towards consent.

Economic Growth

Preventing attacks saves millions in medical costs and restores productivity to families.

ACTIVATE CHANGE

Select your impact level. 85% of funds go directly to programs.

IMPACT LEVEL 1

₹2,000

Provides emergency first aid supplies & crisis counseling for 48 hours.

DONATE NOW

RECOMMENDED

IMPACT LEVEL 2

₹15,000

Funds 3 months of trauma counseling to treat depression and PTSD.

DONATE NOW

IMPACT LEVEL 3

₹75,000

Fully funds one reconstructive surgery (surgeon fees + hospital care).

DONATE NOW

Tax Deductible under Section 80G.

Transparency: You will receive a donation receipt & impact report.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is an acid attack?

Throwing corrosive substance with intent to harm. It dissolves tissue, damages bone, and often targets the face to destroy identity.

What is the punishment under BNS 2023?

Section 124(1): Min 10 years to Life Imprisonment. Section 124(2) (Attempt): 5 to 7 years. Fines are paid to victims.

How does BRAC help survivors?

We provide complete support: Emergency medical care, funding for surgeries, trauma counseling, legal aid, and livelihood training.

Can survivors fully recover?

While scars are permanent, proper support allows significant functional recovery, psychological healing, and a return to a fulfilling life.

Is my donation tax deductible?

Yes. BRAC is registered under Section 80G. You will receive a tax exemption certificate via email within 7 days.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws may vary by location. BRAC is not responsible for errors, omissions, or consequences arising from its use. BRAC® is a registered trademark. Unauthorized commercial use is prohibited. For corrections or permissions, email info@brac.in