Compensation and Care for Acid Attack Victims
Support, compensation, free medical care, and rehabilitation for acid attack survivors
Rights of Acid Attack Victims
The law provides comprehensive support to acid attack victims — from immediate medical care to long-term financial compensation and rehabilitation. These rights are enforceable and cannot be denied.
1. Right to Free Medical Treatment
Under Supreme Court directions (Laxmi v. Union of India, 2014), all hospitals — government and private — are mandated to provide free first aid and medical treatment to acid attack victims without any prior payment. No hospital can deny emergency treatment.
2. Victim Compensation Scheme
Under Section 357A CrPC (now Section 396 BNSS), the court can direct the State to pay compensation to the victim from the Victim Compensation Fund. For acid attack victims, the minimum compensation is ₹3 lakh (as directed by the Supreme Court). States may provide higher amounts.
3. Reconstruction Surgery
States are required to provide free reconstructive surgeries and plastic surgery facilities to acid attack survivors. National and state victim compensation schemes cover surgical costs.
4. Rehabilitation and Support
Vocational Training: Survivors are entitled to vocational training and skill development support to regain economic independence.
Psychological Counselling: Free counselling services must be made available by state governments.
Legal Aid: Acid attack victims are entitled to free legal aid under the Legal Services Authorities Act.
Identity Documents: Authorities must help in re-issuance of identity documents if damaged or lost.
How to Claim Compensation
File an FIR at the nearest police station immediately.
Apply to the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) for victim compensation.
The court handling the case can also award compensation under Section 396 BNSS.
Contact the State Women's Commission or NCW for additional support.