Punjab’s acid law

Every year, around 200 people fall victim to acid attacks in Pakistan, according to data collected by the NGO Acid Survivors Foundation (ASF). Most of these attacks target women, with perpetrators using corrosive chemicals to deliberately disfigure their faces, an act intended to shatter their self-esteem and force them into isolation. The struggles of these survivors have largely remained hidden, surfacing only through fictional portrayals by a few brave filmmakers who have attempted to shed light on their stories. These portrayals serve as a grim reminder of the silent monsters that continue to exist within our society. Against this backdrop, it is heartening to learn that the Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee on Home Affairs has approved the Punjab Acid Control Act 2025. This legislation aims to curb acid attacks by enforcing strict regulations on the sale and distribution of corrosive substances.

Key provisions of the Act include making unlicensed acid sales a non-bailable offense, punishable by up to three years in prison and a Rs500,000 fine. Licensed vendors found guilty of negligence could face up to five years imprisonment and a Rs1 million fine. The law also mandates licences for 30 highly corrosive chemicals, requires clear labeling and detailed transaction records, and holds manufacturers and importers accountable. Sellers can be legally obligated to compensate victims in cases of proven negligence. Licensing authority will rest with deputy commissioners, who will have the power to suspend or revoke licences. The Punjab Women Protection Authority (PWPA) will play a central role in enforcing the law. Encouragingly, plans are underway to establish burn units across all districts in Punjab, while the PWPA also focuses on raising public awareness and supporting victims. It is also reassuring to see that the law targets the middlemen in the supply chain. The continued prevalence of such attacks is largely due to the unchecked and widespread availability of dangerous chemicals. When such substances are easily accessible, it becomes disturbingly simple for an attacker to, in their own words, ‘teach a woman a lesson’ if she dares to defy or reject them.

Whether this legislation will significantly improve women’s safety remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that there will be resistance from retailers and traders who profit from the sale of these harmful substances. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure – and keeping such products out of the hands of unstable individuals must be a priority. It is also hoped that other provinces will follow Punjab’s lead and introduce similarly stringent laws to safeguard women. However, for the authorities in Punjab, the real test lies ahead. The effectiveness of this law will depend entirely on its implementation. Our institutions have, in the past, shown reluctance in enforcing the legislation they pass. Let us hope this time is different, and that the Punjab Acid Control Act 2025 marks a turning point rather than another unfulfilled promise.