Launched in 2017 by the Department of Social Security and Women & Child Development, Government of Punjab, this scheme aims to provide monthly financial assistance to acid attack victims who have been rendered 40% disabled. The objective is to rehabilitate these victims and help them achieve self-reliance. This scheme is fully state-sponsored, and the payment is directly transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account via the directorate’s online system.
Benefits
- Monthly Assistance:
- A financial assistance of ₹8,000 per month is provided to eligible acid attack victims.
Eligibility
- Residency:
- The applicant must be a resident of Punjab.
- Disability Criterion:
- The scheme is targeted at female acid attack victims who have been rendered at least 40% disabled.
Application Process
Offline Process
- Submission:
- The victim, or her parents/guardian/legal heir/family member/any relative, must submit an application to the concerned District Social Security Officer.
- Supporting Documents:
- The application must be accompanied by a medical certificate issued by the Civil Surgeon, confirming the disability due to acid attack.
- Case Sanction:
- Step 1: Upon receiving the application, the District Social Security Officer completes the necessary documentary formalities and submits the case to the Deputy Commissioner within one week.
- Step 2: The Deputy Commissioner convenes a District Level Committee within 7 days. The committee reviews the case and either sanctions or rejects it, providing reasons in case of rejection.
- Step 3: The entire process is to be completed within one month from receipt of the application.
- Step 4: Once sanctioned, the benefit is disbursed from the month in which the acid attack occurred or from the date of notification, whichever is later. The amount is transferred directly to the victim’s bank account.
- Appeal Process:
- If an applicant is aggrieved by the decision, an appeal can be submitted to the Director of the Department of Social Security and Development of Women & Children, Punjab within 15 days. The appeal is disposed of within one month.
Documents Required
- Medical Certificate:
- Issued by a certifying authority prescribed under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (or its subsequent amendment/replacement).
- Copy of F.I.R. or Complaint:
- As applicable.
- Proof of Identity:
- An attested copy of one of the following: Voter List, Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC), Aadhaar Card, Passport, Driving License, or Residence Certificate.
- Bank Account Details:
- Including IFSC Code and Aadhaar Card Number (if available).
- Other Documents:
- Any additional documents as required.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Punjab Financial Assistance to Acid Victims Scheme?
A state-sponsored scheme providing monthly financial aid to female acid attack victims rendered 40% disabled. - When was the scheme launched?
The scheme was launched in 2017. - What is the main objective of the scheme?
To rehabilitate acid attack victims by providing financial assistance, enabling them to become self-reliant. - Who sponsors this scheme?
The scheme is fully sponsored by the Government of Punjab. - What are the benefits provided under the scheme?
Eligible beneficiaries receive a monthly pension of ₹8,000. - How is the financial assistance disbursed?
The payment is directly transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account online. - Who is eligible for assistance under this scheme?
Female acid attack victims, who are residents of Punjab and have been rendered 40% disabled. - Can acid attack victims from outside Punjab apply for this scheme?
No, only residents of Punjab are eligible. - Is there any specific documentation required for availing the benefits of this scheme?
Yes, a medical certificate, proof of identity, bank details, and a copy of the F.I.R. or complaint are required. - How can an applicant apply under the scheme?
Applications are submitted offline to the District Social Security Officer. The victim or her representative can also apply on her behalf if she is unable to do so.