New Delhi: The Supreme Court has directed the Jammu and Kashmir High Court to expedite hearing of all five acid attack cases pending in the state. The court said that delay in these serious cases is unfair to the victims.
Victim’s Plea Highlights Severity of Acid Violence
Petitioner Shaheen Malik appealed to the court, saying, “You should also look into cases of acid assault. A 28-year-old woman was forced to do this… She now weighs only 20 kg and her haemoglobin is 3.”
This statement moved the court, and a comprehensive review of the case was sought.
NALSA schemes praised
Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant said, “NALSA schemes are working well, and their coordination with state governments is commendable.”
He indicated that more attention needs to be paid to rehabilitation and assistance to victims.
Compensation Provisions Highlighted
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta pointed out that provisions already exist in the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) to ensure compensation for victims.
“There is a provision in CrPC where the accused is directed to pay compensation to the victim,” Mehta said.
He also acknowledged that the current legal framework may require updates.
Debate on the Legal Definition of Acid Attack
Justice Bagchi raised the issue of how an acid attack is defined in law.
“The definition of acid attack is based on disfigurement, similar to the definition in the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act,” he said.
Agreeing with the observation, Solicitor General Mehta added:
“My personal opinion is that it should be amended.”
CJI Surya Kant indicated that an added clarification in the law could resolve the issue:
“Yes, an added explanation will take care of it.”
Hearing to Resume After Six Weeks
The Supreme Court ordered that the matter be listed again after six weeks and expressed hope that the Jammu and Kashmir High Court would show substantial progress in disposing of the long-pending cases.