TMU Organises Awareness Programme on Acid Attack Survivors’ Rights, Dignity and Rehabilitation
Moradabad, 19 October 2026: The College of Law & Legal Studies at Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU), Moradabad, organised an awareness programme on “Acid Attack Survivors: Rights, Dignity and Rehabilitation” to sensitise students to the legal rights, remedies and rehabilitation needs of acid attack survivors. The in-house activity focused on legal awareness, women's safety, dignity and self-reliance under the broader objectives of Mission Shakti.
The programme was attended by 80 participants, including 35 girls, 30 boys and 15 faculty members and staff. Presided over by Prof. (Dr.) Harbansh Dixit, Dean, Faculty of Law, TMU, the event combined legal education, documentary screening and student presentations to promote a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by survivors.
Understanding the Legal Framework on Acid Attacks
The programme commenced with a welcome address introducing Mission Shakti and the legal framework relating to acid attacks. The session highlighted Section 124 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, which addresses the offence of voluntarily causing grievous hurt by use of acid, and discussed the significance of the Supreme Court's judgment in Laxmi v. Union of India.
The discussion aimed to familiarise students with the legal provisions addressing acid attacks and the measures intended to protect survivors, regulate acid sales and support access to justice.
Documentary Screening Highlights Survivors’ Experiences
A documentary screening formed part of the awareness programme, presenting the realities of acid attacks and the challenges survivors may face during recovery and rehabilitation. The activity encouraged students to look beyond the legal definition of the offence and consider its wider physical, emotional and social consequences.
The screening also reinforced the importance of treating survivors with dignity, respect and sensitivity, while challenging the stigma and discrimination they may encounter.
Student Presentations on Survivors’ Rights and Rehabilitation
Six students delivered presentations on assigned themes relating to the legal protection and rehabilitation of acid attack survivors. The topics covered:
- Legal provisions under Section 124 of the BNS, 2023: Understanding the offence of acid attack and its legal implications.
- Laxmi v. Union of India: Examining the judgment and measures concerning the regulation of acid sales.
- Compensation and free medical treatment: Understanding support and relief available to survivors.
- Rights under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016: Exploring the legal framework relevant to survivors who meet the Act's applicable criteria.
- Social stigma and rehabilitation: Recognising the social challenges survivors may experience and the importance of inclusion.
- Legal aid and the role of youth: Highlighting access to legal assistance and the contribution students can make to awareness and social change.
The presentations helped students explore the subject from legal and social perspectives while developing their research, communication and public-speaking skills.
Emphasis on Legal Aid, Emergency Support and Women's Safety
The programme highlighted the importance of access to justice, medical assistance, compensation and legal aid for survivors. Students were also made aware of 112, the emergency response number, and 1090, the Uttar Pradesh Women Power Line, as support channels relevant to women's safety.
The discussions reinforced the need for informed legal intervention, community support and rehabilitation measures that enable survivors to rebuild their lives with dignity and confidence.
Address by the Dean, Faculty of Law
Prof. (Dr.) Harbansh Dixit, Dean, Faculty of Law, TMU, presided over the programme and addressed the gathering. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of those involved in organising and conducting the activity.
The event was coordinated by Dr Sourabh Batar, Assistant Professor, College of Law & Legal Studies, TMU, under the broader guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Shivanee M. Kaul, Nodal Officer, Mission Shakti, Teerthanker Mahaveer University.
Key Outcomes of the Awareness Programme
The programme enhanced students' understanding of the legal provisions relating to acid attacks, survivors' rights and the importance of compensation, medical treatment, legal aid and rehabilitation. The documentary and student presentations encouraged sensitivity towards survivors and reinforced the importance of dignity, inclusion and freedom from social stigma.
Through this initiative, the College of Law & Legal Studies reaffirmed its commitment to legal awareness, women's safety and social responsibility. The programme encouraged students to use their legal knowledge to challenge discrimination, support survivors and contribute to a more informed and inclusive society.
