Delhi govt launches crackdown on illegal sale of acid

The Delhi government has launched a crackdown on illegal sale of acid in the capital with inspection of 70 premises involved in stocking acid for business.
According to a government official, the revenue department imposed a fine on five persons found storing illegal acid during a recent drive, which was in keeping with orders of the Supreme Court.
"We inspected 70 premises involved in stocking acid for business where 9 premises violations were identified, 5 cases where violation have been found, a total penalty of Rs 86,000 imposed on them," said Gyanesh Bharti, secretary (Revenue), said.
Bharti said that according to the apex court order, no seller will be allowed to stock or sell acid without license. Buyers will be sold the chemical only after they show their government issued photo identity proof, and purpose of purchase.

"The seller will be obliged to record the sale details and submit them with the local police within three days along with disclosing all stocks to the local sub-divisional magistrate within 15 days. Failing to do so could lead to a fine of Rs 50,000. No acid will be sold to anyone below 18 years of age," Bharti added.
The official also said that only non-harmful form of acid will be available over the counter. In laboratories, hospitals and other institutions where acids are used, a person will be placed in-charge of storing acid.