Supreme Court Takes Strict Note of Acid Attacks, Seeks Detailed Reports from All States

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has taken a stringent stance on acid attack cases, directing all states and Union Territories to submit detailed reports on such incidents. The court’s move comes as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure stricter monitoring and better rehabilitation of victims.

The apex court has asked governments to provide annual data on the number of acid attack cases, the status of trials in courts, and the measures taken for the victims’ rehabilitation.

Court Demands Detailed Case Information
A bench led by the Chief Justice asked for specifics including how many cases have reached the trial court stage, how many have been resolved, and how many remain pending. The court has set a four-week deadline for submitting this information.

Each report must include a brief profile of every victim, covering their educational qualifications, employment, marital status, medical treatment provided or planned, and associated expenses. The court has also asked states and Union Territories to detail the rehabilitation schemes available to victims, including cases where victims were forcibly made to ingest acid.

Hearing on Public Interest Petition
The Supreme Court is hearing a public interest petition filed by an acid attack survivor. The petition requests that the definition of “disabled” in the law be expanded, ensuring that victims with internal injuries from acid attacks receive adequate compensation and other relief measures.

The Chief Justice also urged the central government to consider amendments to existing laws so that perpetrators of acid attacks can face strict and extraordinary punishment, reinforcing accountability and victim protection.