Pakistan’s National Assembly on Tuesday passed the Acid and Burn Crime Prevention Bill 2024, imposing the death penalty for perpetrators if their acid or burn attack results in the victim’s death.
The legislation classifies such attacks as grave offenses and establishes stringent penalties to deter offenders and ensure justice.
Introduced by Member of National Assembly Dr. Mehreen Bhutto on August 6, 2024, the bill aims to expedite trials and provide comprehensive support and protection to victims.
It was subsequently reviewed and approved by the Standing Committee on Interior on November 11, 2024.
The bill includes strict penalties to deter offenders and deliver justice:
- Death penalty for attackers if the victim dies from the acid or burn attack.
- Imprisonment of up to 7 years for non-fatal attacks.
- Mandatory disposal of all cases within 60 days to ensure swift justice.
- Imprisonment up to 2 years or fines for police officers who conduct poor investigations.
- Provision of free medical treatment and rehabilitation services for victims at government hospitals.
- Financial assistance to victims’ families and children until they are financially independent.
The bill also mandates the establishment of rehabilitation centers and legal aid services for victims. To ensure inclusive oversight, an Acid and Burn Crime Monitoring Board will be formed, with women holding at least 33 percent of the seats.
Special security measures will be introduced to protect victims and witnesses during investigations and trials. Law enforcement officers found negligent or guilty of poor investigations may face imprisonment or fines.
Dr. Mehreen Bhutto stressed the urgent need for this legislation, pointing to a worrying rise in acid and burn attacks, which disproportionately impact women and children. She highlighted the profound physical, psychological, and socio-economic consequences suffered by victims, underscoring the importance of a dedicated legal framework to punish offenders and support survivors.
The bill aligns with Pakistan’s commitments under international human rights conventions, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). It also reflects the principles enshrined in Pakistan’s 1973 Constitution to protect the dignity and rights of all citizens.
Following approval by the National Assembly, the bill will now be forwarded to the Senate for final ratification.
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