THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK: ARE WE DOING ENOUGH TO COMBAT ACID ATTACKS?

AUTHORS – SHUBHAM KUMAR* & AMALENDU MISHRA**, STUDENT* & ASSISTANT PROFESSOR**, LAW COLLEGE DEHRADUN, UTTARANCHAL UNIVERSITY, DEHRADUN.

BEST CITATION – SHUBHAM KUMAR & AMALENDU MISHRA, THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK: ARE WE DOING ENOUGH TO COMBAT ACID ATTACKS?, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 4 (2) OF 2024, PG. 362-367, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

Abstract:

Acid attacks represent one of the most vicious forms of violence, inflicting devastating physical, psychological, and social harm, with women being disproportionately affected. Despite global awareness and advocacy, these attacks persist, prompting scrutiny of existing legal frameworks. This article assesses the efficacy of legal measures aimed at preventing acid attacks, prosecuting offenders, and supporting survivors.

Historically prevalent in regions like South Asia, particularly India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, acid attacks have spread globally, necessitating a comprehensive legal response. Several countries have enacted specific laws to address acid violence, including stringent penalties for perpetrators, regulation of acid sales, and support systems for survivors. However, effectiveness varies widely due to differences in legal systems, enforcement, and societal attitudes towards gender-based violence.

While South Asian countries like India and Bangladesh have implemented notable legal reforms, challenges in enforcement and support provision persist. In India, despite legislation imposing severe penalties and regulating acid sales, issues such as availability and delayed justice remain. Bangladesh’s proactive legal approach has yielded some success, yet gaps in survivor support persist. Pakistan faces similar challenges with weak enforcement and inadequate support for survivors.

Outside South Asia, countries like the United Kingdom and Cambodia have also introduced legal measures to combat acid attacks, but face challenges in enforcement and support provision. The UK’s Offensive Weapons Act and Cambodia’s Acid Law aim to regulate acid sales and impose penalties, yet enforcement remains a concern.

Evaluation of legal frameworks emphasizes the importance of stringent laws, effective enforcement, regulation of acid sales, and comprehensive support for survivors. Public awareness and societal attitudes also play a crucial role in prevention. International collaboration and sharing of best practices are essential for addressing this global issue.

Lessons from Bangladesh’s comprehensive legal framework, the UK’s regulatory measures, and India’s support mechanisms offer valuable insights for other countries. However, addressing the root causes of acid attacks requires a holistic approach involving legal reforms, societal change, and women’s empowerment. Ultimately, the fight against acid attacks is a battle for human dignity and equality, demanding concerted efforts from governments, NGOs, and communities worldwide.

Keywords:- Acid Attack, Legal Framework, Effectiveness, Laws & Regulations, South Asia