Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra | March 19, 2026: A minor girl suffered burn injuries after an acid attack in Maharashtra’s Ahilyanagar district in western Maharashtra, leading to protests by residents and discussions in the State Assembly. Police have launched an investigation and formed multiple teams to identify and arrest the accused.
The incident occurred on Tuesday (March 17, 2026) afternoon when the girl was returning home from school in Vadgaonpan village in Sangamner taluka. An unidentified individual reportedly threw a corrosive substance on her face in a relatively isolated area. She was taken to a hospital in Loni, where she is undergoing treatment for burn injuries.
Reports indicate variation in the victim’s reported age across sources, with some identifying her as 11 years old and others as 13 years old. Authorities have not clarified this discrepancy.
According to information presented in the Maharashtra Assembly, the girl sustained approximately 7 percent burn injuries. Acid exposure causes chemical burns that may lead to tissue damage, scarring, and functional impairment. Injuries to the face may also affect vision and lead to long term physical and psychological consequences.
Police registered a First Information Report under provisions related to acid attack causing grievous hurt and wrongful restraint under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Superintendent of Police Somnath Gharge stated that investigators are examining all possible angles and that, based on the girl’s statement, the accused was not known to her.
Officials said the attack occurred in an area with limited CCTV coverage, which has complicated the investigation. Police have deployed around ten teams to trace the accused.
The incident triggered protests in the area. Residents organised demonstrations demanding immediate action. Locals staged a road blockade and held a silent march to the Sangamner police station.
Community members submitted a memorandum to authorities seeking strict legal action. Their demands included invoking provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, conducting a fast track trial, appointing a Special Public Prosecutor, providing financial assistance under the Manodhairya Yojana, and strengthening regulation of acid sales.
The case also led to political responses in the Maharashtra Assembly. Opposition leaders raised concerns over the incident and law and order. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar criticised the government over crimes against women and minors. Senior leader Nana Patole called for advanced medical care for the victim, noting the risk of long term facial injury.
Speaker Rahul Narwekar directed the government to present a detailed report on the incident. State Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare informed the House that the victim would receive financial assistance under the Nirbhaya scheme and confirmed that she had sustained about 7 percent burns.
BJP legislator Chitra Kishor Wagh stated that the accused would be apprehended soon and that strict action would be taken.
Acid sales in India are regulated under Supreme Court guidelines, which mandate identity verification and restricted over the counter access.
Acid attacks cause chemical burns that can penetrate deep into tissues. In children, the impact can be more severe because their skin is thinner, which allows deeper injury even with smaller amounts of corrosive substances. Facial exposure increases the risk of damage to the eyes, nose, and mouth, potentially affecting vision, breathing, and eating.
Medical care is essential for burn assessment, infection prevention, and long term management, which may include reconstructive procedures.
Children are also at higher risk of long term complications, including scarring, functional impairment, and psychological trauma. Early medical and psychological support is important for recovery.
Police said efforts to identify and arrest the accused are ongoing.
(Rh/MSM)