Side-by-Side Comparison

326A vs 124

The stringent laws against acid attacks have moved from IPC 326A to BNS 124, maintaining their severity.

What Changed?

Direct renumbering from 326A to 124.

Explicit mention that fines must be paid directly to the victim to cover medical expenses.

Verdict

"Continues the mandatory minimum 10-year sentence for use of corrosive substances."

Detailed Analysis

OLD LAW (IPC)

326A

Act of 1860

Section Data Pending

Details for this section are being updated.

PunishmentN/A

REFORM

NEW LAW (BNS)

124

Act of 2024

Section Data Pending

Details for this section are being updated.

PunishmentN/A

1860

326A Origin

2024

124 Reform

Legal Implications

Introduced after the landmark Laxmi v. Union of India case, acid attack laws are among the most severe in the penal code. BNS 124 carries forward the heavy penalties (10 years to Life) and ensures that the financial burden of the crime is borne by the offender through mandatory compensation to the victim.

Practical Scenarios

"Throwing acid on a person with intent to disfigure (BNS 124)."

"Administering corrosive substances causing permanent damage (BNS 124)."

Expert Q&A

Is acid attack bailable in BNS?

No, Section 124 of the BNS is a non-bailable and cognizable offence.

What is the minimum sentence for an acid attack under Section 326A/BNS 124?

Mandatory minimum 10 years rigorous imprisonment, extendable to life imprisonment. The fine must be 'just and reasonable' and paid directly to the victim to cover medical expenses and rehabilitation.

What is Section 326B/BNS 125 (attempt to throw acid)?

Section 326B punishes the ATTEMPT to throw acid (without causing injury) with up to 7 years. It recognises that even a foiled acid attack causes severe terror and trauma.

What Supreme Court directions exist on acid attacks beyond Section 326A?

Laxmi v. Union of India (2014) directed: acid cannot be sold over the counter to persons below 18; sellers must obtain buyer ID and maintain registers; states must formulate compensation schemes for acid attack survivors.

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