The Supreme Court of India has directed all States and Union Territories to submit detailed, year-wise data on acid attack cases, including trial status and appeals. The Court also sought information on victim rehabilitation, medical expenses, and urged tougher punishment for acid attack convicts.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday took serious note of the rising cases of acid attacks across the country and directed all States and Union Territories to submit detailed information on such incidents within four weeks.
A Bench headed by Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices R. Mahadevan and Jaymalya Bagchi, asked the States and UTs to provide year-wise data on acid attack cases, including the total number of cases reported, their current status in courts, and the progress of trials.
The Court directed that information must be shared regarding how many cases have reached the stage of filing of charge sheets before trial courts. It also asked for details on the number of cases that have been decided and those that are still pending at the trial court level.
The Bench further instructed the authorities to disclose the number of appeals filed in higher courts, including High Courts, in relation to acid attack cases. All this information must be compiled and submitted within a period of four weeks.
In a significant move focused on victim welfare, the Supreme Court asked the States and UTs to provide brief personal details of each victim. This includes the victim’s academic qualifications, employment status, marital status, details of medical treatment received, and the expenses already incurred or likely to be incurred for treatment.
Also Read: Acid Attacks on Women: Legislative and Judicial Responses in India
The Court also sought information on the rehabilitation measures and schemes implemented by States and Union Territories to support acid attack survivors. It specifically asked for details regarding cases where victims were forced to ingest acid, which often leads to severe internal injuries and long-term health complications.
During the hearing, the Chief Justice urged the Central government to consider changes in existing laws to ensure that those convicted of acid attacks receive
“extraordinary punishment for indulging in acid attacks”,
highlighting the need for stronger deterrence against such heinous crimes.
The matter was being heard in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Shaheen Malik, herself an acid attack survivor. Through the petition, Malik has sought an expansion of the definition of “disabled persons” under the law so that victims who suffer life-threatening damage to internal organs due to forced ingestion of acid are properly recognised and receive adequate compensation and relief.
The PIL also stresses the need for better medical care, long-term rehabilitation, and financial assistance for acid attack survivors, especially those who face permanent disabilities and loss of livelihood as a result of the crime.
The Supreme Court’s directions mark a crucial step towards accountability, victim-centric justice, and stronger legal protection for acid attack survivors across India.
Case Title:
SHAHEEN MALIK Vs UNION OF INDIA (W.P.(C) No. 1112/2025)
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