New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): The Supreme Court on Thursday called for a comprehensive review of how India treats acid attack survivors, urging the Union government to examine whether they should be formally recognised as persons with disabilities—a change that could significantly broaden their access to state-supported welfare schemes.
The direction came while the Bench heard a petition filed by an acid attack survivor who argued that current laws fail to account for the lasting physical and psychological damage inflicted by such assaults. Inclusion under disability categories, the petitioner said, would help survivors receive sustained medical care, rehabilitation assistance, and financial support.
Centre asked to file its response
The court issued notice to the Union government, asking it to respond to the plea and consider legislative amendments to incorporate acid attack victims among those eligible for disability benefits. The Solicitor General assured the Bench that the proposal would be taken up earnestly, acknowledging the need for a more structured protection framework.
High Courts told to provide pending case figures
Highlighting sluggish progress in trials across the country, the Supreme Court instructed all High Courts to furnish updated data on every acid attack case still awaiting verdicts. The directive is intended to help the apex court understand the scale of delays and identify systemic lapses.
A harsh rebuke over delayed justice
The court also took strong exception to a 2009 acid attack case still languishing in a Delhi trial court. Calling the situation a “national shame,” the judges said that justice delayed in such brutal crimes undermines public confidence and prolongs the suffering of survivors.
