Gujarat Court Awards 15-Year Jail Term in Acid Attack on Woman Home Guard

Ahmedabad | Gujarat — In a landmark judgement that sends a powerful message against violence targeting women in uniform, the Kalol Sessions Court in Gandhinagar district has sentenced acid attack accused Ashok Rameshbhai Rawat to 15 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of ₹1 lakh. The court also ordered ₹2 lakh compensation for the injured woman home guard.

Delivering what is being described as the first major conviction of its kind in an acid attack case in the district, Additional Sessions Judge B.R. Rajput began the verdict with a Sanskrit verse, underlining the role of law in protecting society and maintaining order.

Attack Over Traffic Dispute

The shocking incident dates back to July 18, 2025, when five home guards — including four women — were on traffic duty under the Chhatral overbridge in Kalol. According to court records, the accused, an auto-rickshaw driver, had parked his vehicle in a way that obstructed traffic.

When woman home guard Bhavanaben Parmar asked him to move the rickshaw, the accused allegedly argued and left the spot in anger.

However, the situation took a horrific turn about 30 minutes later when he returned carrying a bottle of acid and launched a brutal attack on the home guard while she was still on duty.

Bhavanaben suffered severe burns on her face and back, while acid splashed on other women personnel present at the scene. The injured were rushed to Gandhinagar Civil Hospital for emergency treatment.

‘Attack on the State’s Security’

The investigation was conducted by U.S. Patel, then Police Inspector of Kalol Taluka Police Station, who filed the charge sheet after collecting evidence.

During the trial, government prosecutor Jignesh H. Joshi argued that the crime went beyond personal vengeance.

“This is not merely an acid attack, but an attack on the security apparatus of the state. If such offenders are not punished strictly, the morale of public servants will be severely affected,” the prosecution argued in court.

The court agreed, calling the act “extremely brutal and serious,” and emphasised the need for strong punishment to deter similar crimes.

Strong Message Against Acid Violence

The judge observed that attacks on women performing public duty strike at the very foundation of law and order. Considering the gravity of the offence and evidence presented, the court convicted Rawat and handed down the 15-year sentence.