SURAT, GUJARAT — A shocking act of violence unfolded inside a Surat family court on Friday, March 13, 2026, when a 75-year-old man allegedly threw an acid-like substance at his estranged wife during a legal hearing. Immediately after the attack, the man reportedly attempted to take his own life by swallowing poison, leaving both parties in critical condition.
The incident occurred in Courtroom Number Six on the family court premises. According to Inspector J.A. Rathwa of the Umra police station, the couple was attending a hearing regarding the recovery of maintenance payments. The pair has been living separately since 2017 and has a long, turbulent history of litigation.
Escalating Pattern of Violence
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The Attack: While the court was in session, the accused lunged at his 61-year-old wife and threw a corrosive liquid, resulting in severe burn injuries. He then consumed a poisonous substance before security personnel could intervene.
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Medical Status: The woman was rushed to a nearby private hospital for specialized burn treatment, while the accused was transported to the Surat Civil Hospital under police custody.
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Criminal History: Police officials revealed that the 75-year-old has a significant criminal record involving his wife. In 2023, he was booked for attempted murder after allegedly attacking her with a knife. Additionally, he had previously faced domestic violence charges.
Security Concerns in Judicial Premises
The brazen nature of the attack—taking place inside a courtroom—has raised serious questions regarding the security protocols at the Surat judicial complex. Investigators are currently looking into how the accused managed to smuggle both a corrosive liquid and poison into the high-security zone.
Police have registered a fresh case against the man, adding to his pending legal troubles. Forensic teams were dispatched to the courtroom to identify the exact chemical used in the attack as the investigation continues.
