National Assembly Passes Bill With Harsh Penalties for Acid and Burn Attacks

On Tuesday, the National Assembly approved the Acid and Fire Attack Prevention Bill 2024, introducing strict penalties for such crimes, including the death sentence or up to seven years in prison for offenders. Police officials found guilty of conducting faulty investigations could face up to two years’ imprisonment or a monetary fine.

The bill, presented by PPP MNA Mehreen Razzaq Bhutto, aims to curb acid and burn attacks, ensure speedy trials, and support victims’ rehabilitation. It directs courts to resolve these cases within 60 days.

Key measures include free treatment for victims in public hospitals, the creation of rehabilitation centers, and the provision of free legal aid. The law also mandates the formation of an acid and burn crime monitoring board with at least one-third female representation.

Victims and witnesses will receive special protection, while financial assistance will be provided to victims’ children and dependents until they can support themselves.

During the same session, the House passed five bills: the Lawyers and Bar Councils (Amendment) Bill 2025, the National Institute of Health (Reorganisation) Amendment Bill 2025, the Acid and Fire Attack Prevention Bill 2024, the Allocation of Reserved University Seats Bill 2024, and the Zakat and Ushr (Amendment) Bill 2025.

The Journalists’ Protection (Amendment) Bill 2025 was initially approved but later sent back to the standing committee for further review after intervention by Law Minister Tarar.