New Delhi, 20 April (H.S.):

The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Monday submitted comprehensive recommendations to various Union ministries to strengthen care, justice and rehabilitation for acid attack survivors. The recommendations were prepared on the basis of the “Navjeevan: Consultation on Care, Justice and Dignity for Acid Attack Survivors,” held on January 16, 2026.

According to a Commission release, the report proposes a holistic and sensitive framework for survivors, covering every aspect from treatment and legal aid to social rehabilitation.

In the health sector, the Commission has recommended the implementation of a golden hour protocol in all hospitals, free and lifelong treatment for acid attack survivors, and the establishment of specialised treatment centres. It has also stressed linking treatment under the Ayushman Bharat scheme and expanding telemedicine services.

On the legal front, the Commission has called for fast-track hearings in such cases, mandatory registration of zero FIRs, and the appointment of special legal officers. It has also urged the early implementation of the “Acid Attack Victims Bill, 2022.”

For compensation and financial assistance, the Commission has suggested a uniform compensation structure across the country, timely disbursal, monthly pensions, and direct benefit transfer payments.

The report also recommends measures to improve employment, skill development, education and entrepreneurship opportunities for survivors, along with awareness campaigns aimed at enhancing dignity and social acceptance.

In addition, it has called for the inclusion of acid attack survivors under the disability category of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and for linking them to all social security schemes.

The Commission has further recommended strict regulation of acid sales, amendments to the Poisons Act, 1919, and the development of a national-level case tracking system.

The NCW has urged the concerned ministries to implement these recommendations at the earliest so that acid attack survivors can receive timely treatment, justice and a life of dignity.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar