Supreme Court Calls for Stronger Measures Against Acid Attacks

The Supreme Court has called for harsher penalties and broader protections under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act for acid attack victims. It urged legislative action and greater accountability, including asset seizure of perpetrators and illegal acid sellers, in response to the alarming rise of acid attacks.

The Supreme Court on Monday highlighted the inadequacy of current punishments for acid attacks, stating that survivors with internal injuries, even without visible disfigurement, should be covered under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi urged the Central government to amend the Act's Schedule to ensure comprehensive victim coverage.

Currently, the Schedule limits its definition to acid attack survivors with disfigurement from acid violence, excluding those who experience internal harm from forcible administration of substances. The court requested a 'deemed amendment,' to be reviewed in two weeks, broadening the scope of victim recognition.

The apex court also pointed fingers at those illegally selling acid, asserting they should be held vicariously liable. During the hearing of a related petition, the judges called for perpetrators to face asset confiscation, including shares in family properties, reflecting on justice and deterrence in stopping this 'alarming' rise in acid attacks.