Indian Penal Code, 1860
Section 326A
repealedVoluntarily causing grievous hurt by use of acid, etc.
Whoever causes permanent or partial damage or deformity to, or bums or maims or disfigures or disables, any part or parts of the body of a person or causes grievous hurt by throwing acid1 on or by administering acid to that person, or by using any other means with the intention of causing or with the knowledge that he is likely to cause such injury or hurt, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which shall not be less than ten years but which may extend to imprisonment for life, and with fine;
Why this exists
This section was added by the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, following widespread public outrage over acid attacks, particularly against women, which cause severe, permanent, and often disfiguring harm and were previously punished only under the general grievous hurt provisions. It created a dedicated, harsher offence with a mandatory minimum sentence to reflect the horrific and lasting damage acid attacks cause, and to help ensure victims received compensation for medical treatment. Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, this offence is now covered under Section 124.
How courts read it
Courts, including the Supreme Court, have emphasized victim compensation alongside punishment in acid attack cases, directing state governments to ensure free medical treatment and financial compensation for survivors, and have also regulated the sale of acid to help prevent such attacks.
Common misconceptions
- Myth: Acid attack cases are treated the same as other grievous hurt cases under general hurt provisions.
Fact: Since 2013, acid attacks have their own dedicated section with a mandatory minimum ten-year sentence, reflecting the uniquely severe and permanent harm such attacks cause.