NHRC seeks action taken report from Bhiwani police in acid attack case

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognisance of a horrific acid attack on a minor girl in Bhiwani district, allegedly carried out by her own father. Acting on a complaint filed by child rights activist Sushil Verma, the Commission has directed Bhiwani police to submit an action taken report (ATR) within two weeks.

The incident took place on August 3 in a Bhiwani village, where the accused father, allegedly intoxicated, poured acid on his daughter, causing severe burns to her face and body. He then played loud music to muffle her screams and even tried to drown her in a water tank, closing the lid. Neighbours, alerted by the noise, rescued the girl and rushed her to a local hospital. She was later referred to PGIMS, Rohtak, where she is currently undergoing treatment.

Following the minor’s statement, the accused was arrested on August 6. According to police sources, the man is a battery operator by profession and known for violent behaviour under the influence of alcohol. The attack reportedly occurred when the schoolgoing girl asked her father for money.

"This is a horrific case of domestic violence, acid attack, and attempted murder. The accused must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Sushil Verma, a former member of the Haryana Commission for Protection of Child Rights (HCPCR), who filed the complaint with NHRC.

The NHRC’s Bench, chaired by Member Priyank Kanoongo, directed the Superintendent of Police, Bhiwani, to investigate and submit a detailed ATR. The Commission further ordered departments concerned to coordinate efforts to ensure the victim’s safety, rehabilitation, and legal aid.

Verma also demanded an inquiry into the suspicious death of the girl's mother, who passed away earlier. The survivor’s 15-year-old brother has been left without proper care, prompting urgent calls for state protection and social welfare intervention.