The Union Government on Wednesday reaffirmed that the safety and security of women and girls remains its highest priority, outlining a comprehensive legal, institutional and policy framework to prevent acid attacks, punish offenders and ensure protection, compensation and rehabilitation of survivors.
Replying to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annpurna Devi said the Centre has taken several measures to support and supplement the efforts of States and Union Territories in addressing crimes against women, including acid attacks. She noted that while “police” and “public order” are State subjects under the Constitution, the Central Government has put in place strong laws, advisories and schemes to ensure effective action and victim support.
Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, which replaced the Indian Penal Code with effect from July 1, 2024, acid attacks have been recognised as a distinct and grave offence. Section 124 of the BNS prescribes a minimum punishment of ten years’ imprisonment, which may extend to life imprisonment, along with a fine adequate to meet the medical expenses of the victim. Attempts to commit acid attacks have also been criminalised, with punishment ranging from five to seven years’ imprisonment and fine, ensuring strong deterrence even in cases where grievous injury is not caused.
The Minister highlighted that victim compensation and rehabilitation have been strengthened under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. Section 396 mandates every State Government, in coordination with the Centre, to prepare a victim compensation scheme, with compensation payable in addition to fines imposed by courts. All States and Union Territories have notified such schemes. To support these efforts, the Ministry of Home Affairs released a one-time grant of ₹200 crore under the Central Victim Compensation Fund from the Nirbhaya Fund in 2016–17.
In line with Supreme Court directions in the Nipun Saxena vs Union of India case, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has enhanced compensation for women victims and survivors of sexual assault and other crimes, including acid attacks. NALSA has also framed a dedicated Legal Services to Victims of Acid Attacks Scheme to ensure access to medical care, rehabilitation services and legal aid.
To prevent misuse of corrosive substances, the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued advisories and Model Poisons Rules to States and Union Territories to strictly regulate the sale of acids and chemicals. States have been asked to ensure effective implementation so that such substances are not easily accessible for criminal use.
The government is also implementing Mission Shakti, an umbrella scheme for the safety, security and empowerment of women. Under the scheme, One Stop Centres provide integrated services such as medical aid, counselling, police facilitation, legal assistance and temporary shelter. A 24×7 toll-free Women Helpline (181), now integrated with the Emergency Response Support System (112), has assisted over 9.6 million women across the country as of December 31, 2025. Additionally, more than 14,600 Women Help Desks have been set up in police stations with central assistance.
Capacity building and sensitisation of law enforcement agencies have also been prioritised. The Bureau of Police Research and Development has conducted training programmes for police, prosecutors and medical officers, prepared standard operating procedures for Women Help Desks, and organised webinars on gender sensitivity and women’s safety.
The Minister added that awareness campaigns are being carried out through the National Commission for Women and similar bodies in the States to sensitise the public and promote awareness of laws and support mechanisms. The Commission also takes up complaints with police and other authorities to ensure timely redressal.
The Minister said that the government remains committed to working closely with States and Union Territories to ensure a safe and secure environment for women and girls across the country.
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