BNS Section 124

BNS Section 124 deals with the offense of Voluntarily causing grievous hurt by use of acid, etc.
(1) Whoever causes permanent or partial damage or deformity to, or burns or maims or disfigures or disables, any part or parts of the body of a person or causes grievous hurt by throwing acid on or by administering acid to that person, or by using any other means with the intention of causing or with the knowledge that he is likely to cause such injury or hurt or causes a person to be in a permanent vegetative state shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which shall not be less than ten years but which may extend to imprisonment for life, and with fine: Provided that such fine shall be just and reasonable to meet the medical expenses of the treatment of the victim:

Provided further that any fine imposed under this section shall be paid to the victim.

(2) Whoever throws or attempts to throw acid on any person or attempts to administer acid to any person, or attempts to use any other means, with the intention of causing permanent or partial damage or deformity or burns or maiming or disfigurement or disability or grievous hurt to that person, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which shall not be less than five years but which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.

Explanation 1
For the purposes of this section, “acid” includes any substance which has acidic or corrosive character or burning nature, that is capable of causing bodily injury leading to scars or disfigurement or temporary or permanent disability.

Explanation 2
For the purposes of this section, permanent or partial damage or deformity or permanent vegetative state, shall not be required to be irreversible.

Key Points:
Scope of Offence:
This section specifically addresses acts that cause grievous hurt through the use of acid or similar means. It encompasses a range of severe injuries, including burns, deformities, and disabilities inflicted on any part of a person’s body.

Grievous Hurt:
Grievous hurt is defined broadly and includes any injury that causes permanent or partial damage, disfigurement, or incapacitates the victim. This extends to creating a state of permanent vegetative state, signifying severe and lasting impairment.

Intent and Knowledge:
The perpetrator must either have the intent to cause such harm or have knowledge that their actions are likely to result in grievous hurt. This emphasizes both deliberate and reckless behavior in inflicting injury.

Punishment:
Section 124(1) imposes severe penalties for causing grievous hurt by acid, with imprisonment for a term of not less than ten years but extending to life imprisonment. Additionally, a fine is imposed that must be "just and reasonable" to cover the victim's medical expenses.
Importantly, any fine levied under this section is mandated to be paid directly to the victim, ensuring that they receive support for their medical treatment.

Attempted Offence:
Section 124(2) covers attempts to commit the same offences. If a person throws or attempts to throw acid or administer it with the intent to cause grievous hurt, they face imprisonment for a term of not less than five years, extending up to seven years, alongside potential fines.

Deterrent Effect:
The law aims to act as a deterrent against the heinous crime of acid attacks, which disproportionately affect women and can lead to life-altering consequences for the victims.

Victim-Centric Approach:
The provisions reflect a victim-centric approach, emphasizing restitution through fines that directly support the victim's medical needs, acknowledging the severe impact such crimes have on individuals.

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