Acid Attack Cases Low in Jammu Kashmir, Centre Highlights Legal Safeguards and Nationwide Survivor Support Systems | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has recorded among the lowest numbers of reported acid attack cases in the country over the last five years, even as the Union Government said it has strengthened legal provisions, compensation frameworks and rehabilitation mechanisms for survivors across India.

According to data compiled by the National Crime Records Bureau and shared by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in the Rajya Sabha, Jammu and Kashmir reported a total of seven acid attack cases between 2019 and 2023.

Year-wise, the Union Territory recorded two cases in 2019, none in 2020, three in 2021, two in 2022 and none in 2023. The figures place JK among regions with sporadic incidence compared to several large states where double-digit cases are reported annually.

Nationally, acid attack cases have remained relatively steady. Across India, 249 cases were reported in 2019, declining during the pandemic years to 182 in 2020 and 176 in 2021, before rising again to 202 in 2022 and 207 in 2023.

Among states, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh reported the highest numbers, with West Bengal recording 57 cases in 2023 and Uttar Pradesh 31. Gujarat, Odisha, Rajasthan, Kerala and Haryana also reported consistent annual cases.

The Ministry noted that investigation and prosecution of such crimes fall primarily under the jurisdiction of states and Union Territories as “police” and “public order” are state subjects under the Constitution. However, the Centre has put in place statutory, financial and institutional mechanisms to support victims and strengthen deterrence.

Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which replaced the Indian Penal Code from July 2024, acid attack has been classified as a distinct offence. Causing grievous hurt using acid attracts a minimum sentence of 10 years, extendable to life imprisonment, along with a fine intended to cover medical treatment costs. Attempted acid attacks carry five to seven years’ imprisonment.

Compensation to survivors is mandated through victim compensation schemes notified by all states and Union Territories. A one-time assistance of 200 crore has been released earlier to states under the Central Victim Compensation Fund to support rehabilitation.

The government also cited multiple support services available to survivors. These include medical treatment, psycho-social counselling, legal aid and temporary shelter through One Stop Centres under Mission Shakti. As of December 31, 2025, over 96 lakh women nationwide have accessed assistance through these centres and the integrated women’s helpline network.

Other measures include regulation of acid sales under Model Poisons Rules, the establishment of 14,658 Women Help Desks in police stations, and legal aid frameworks through the National Legal Services Authority to ensure access to medical and rehabilitative services.

The Ministry said training programmes for police, prosecutors and medical officers are being conducted to improve investigation and victim handling, while advisories have been issued periodically to states for expeditious action and survivor support.

While the incidence in Jammu and Kashmir remains low in comparison to many parts of the country, the broader national trend indicates that acid attacks continue to be reported annually, prompting continued focus on prevention, faster trials and rehabilitation.