Section 326 A of Indian Penal Code talks about voluntarily causing grievous hurt by use of acid, etc. The section was inserted by Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 13 of 2013.
This section states that these persons will fall under the preview of this section –
- The person who causes permanent damage or partial damage or deformity to or burns or gives wound or injuries which helps permanent or disfigures or disables
- the part or parts of the body of the victim
- the person causes grievous hurt by throwing the acid on victim
- Or by administering the acid to that person or used any other means to do the same
- The intention of the person was to cause hurt or injury
- Or the accused was having knowledge that the act is likely to cause hurt or injury
Punishment –
The punishment for voluntarily causing grievous hurt by use of acid attack shall not be less than 10 years and it may extend to life imprisonment along with fine. However, there are some points to remember – fine should be just and reasonable so that the victim can manage her medical expenses of her treatment which is the consequences of acid attack. In addition, the compensation should be paid to the victims.
Laxmi v. Union of India, AIR 2015 SC 3662
In this case, the hon’ble Supreme Court held that acid attack victims should be given minimum compensation of Rs 3 lakhs along with free Medical facilities.
Section 326 B of Indian Penal Code
Section 326 B of Indian Penal Code talks about voluntarily throwing or attempting to throw acid on the victim. This section was also inserted by Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 13 of 2013 where the person falls under the preview of this section –
- When the person throws or attempts to throw acid on any person or attempts to use any means for the same.
- When he intends to cause permanent or partial damage or deformity.
- Or when the person causes burn or maiming or disfigurement or disability which results in grievous hurt.
Punishment – Imprisonment shall not be less than 5 years which may extend to 7 years along with fine.
