The Delhi government is planning new initiatives aimed at providing lifelong financial aid to acid attack survivors for medical treatments and offering subsidised transport options to schoolchildren with significant disabilities, officials revealed on Thursday. Additionally, the government has drafted a cabinet proposal for a support programme for individuals with high-level disabilities requiring extensive assistance, particularly to fund caregivers, news agency PTI reported quoting officials.
A disability is classified as a "benchmark" if it results in a 40% or greater impairment.
In a recent meeting led by Social Welfare Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, department officials shared that the draft plan for transportation subsidies for students with benchmark disabilities in Delhi schools is nearing completion. It is expected to be presented to the minister for final approval shortly, officials added.
During the meeting, Bharadwaj highlighted that, under the current system, acid attack survivors are entitled to a monthly disability allowance of Rs 2,500. However, he emphasised that these individuals often require ongoing surgeries and medical treatments throughout their lives.
"The minister instructed officials to explore the possibility of developing a scheme that provides lifelong financial assistance for the medical needs of acid attack survivors," a senior official said.
Acid Attack Cases In India
According to the National Crime Records Bureau, India recorded over 1,000 acid attack cases between 2018 and 2022. The country recorded 228, 249, 182, 176, and 202 cases per year from 2018.
Punishment For Acid Attacks
As per Section 124 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, a person found guilty of causing grievous injury using acid can be imprisoned for not less than 10 years and penalised with a fine that should cover the victim's medical expenses. Permanent damage or irreversible damage to the victim is not required for the punishment to be applicable.
Anyone found guilty of attempting to cause grievous injury using acid can be punished with a five-year jail term that may extend up to seven years and may also be levied a fine.