New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at expanding welfare protections for acid attack survivors, the Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Union government to examine whether such survivors should be formally recognised as persons with disabilities under existing law.
The direction came while the court was hearing a public interest petition filed by a survivor who argued that the severity and lifelong nature of injuries caused by acid attacks warranted inclusion in disability categories, enabling victims to access state benefits, rehabilitation schemes, and social security measures.
Centre asked to respond; amendment on the table
A Bench of the Supreme Court sought a detailed response from the Centre on the plea and asked it to consider amending relevant legislation so that survivors can be extended the welfare entitlements currently available to persons with disabilities.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Union government, assured the court that the proposal would be evaluated with “appropriate seriousness,” acknowledging the profound physical, psychological, and economic consequences faced by survivors.
High Courts told to submit data on pending cases
In a parallel move, the Bench directed all High Courts across the country to compile and submit information on pending trials involving acid attacks. The order aims to give the Supreme Court a nationwide picture of delays, procedural gaps, and bottlenecks that continue to impede justice in such cases.
Court criticises slow trial in 2009 Delhi case
The court also expressed strong displeasure over the sluggish pace of a 2009 acid attack prosecution pending before a Delhi court. Calling the delay a “national shame,” the judges observed that prolonged trials not only deny justice to victims but also send a troubling message about the system’s inability to respond decisively to gender-based violence.
With the Centre now tasked to review legislative options and courts instructed to map out pending cases, the Supreme Court’s intervention is expected to bring renewed focus to both justice delivery and long-term rehabilitation for acid attack survivors.
