Islamabad, 15 Apr, 2025: Acid Control Act 2025 has officially been approved by the Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee on Home Affairs, making it the first focused and well-defined law in Pakistan to oversee the sale, distribution, and use of acid and other corrosive chemicals.
This historic move is expected to dramatically reduce acid attacks and enforce tight control over the chemical trade.
The Punjab Home Department has been tasked with ensuring smooth enforcement of this law, while the formal notification will be issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD).
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Unlike other provinces that rely on general or outdated laws, Punjab has set a strong example with a dedicated legal structure. Sindh, in contrast, currently has no such targeted legislation in place.
Originally proposed as a private member’s bill, the Acid Control Act is being pushed directly to the Assembly floor without needing full Cabinet or Legislative Committee approval showcasing the urgency and wide political support behind it.
The law introduces strict penalties for unlicensed acid sales. Anyone selling acid without an official permit issued by the Deputy Commissioner will face non-bailable criminal charges, including up to three years in jail and fines up to Rs 500,000.
If the fine remains unpaid, the sentence may be extended by three additional months.
Even licensed sellers can be penalized if found guilty of careless or illegal handling. Punishments range from two to five years in prison and monetary penalties between Rs 200,000 and Rs 1 million.
Importantly, if negligence by a vendor leads to an acid attack, they must compensate the victim as per court orders.
The law will regulate 30 highly dangerous chemicals, including sulfuric, nitric, and hydrochloric acids, among others.
Every acid container must carry full labeling detailing the product name, type, license number, quantity, and expiry dates.
Vendors are also required to record every sale using a standard form and submit these records yearly. Any failure can lead to license suspension.
Manufacturers and importers are also bound by the same licensing rules. If a license is lost, reissuance will occur only after thorough verification.
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Furthermore, a proposal has been made to attach the Women Protection Authority to the Home Department.
This body, led by MPA Hina Pervez Butt, will support enforcement and victim services offering rehabilitation, legal help, and protection to survivors.
This landmark law ensures that acid attacks are treated with the seriousness they deserve, making Punjab a leader in protecting human rights and ensuring justice.
