The Supreme Court on Wednesday expressed serious concern over the prolonged pendency of acid attack cases across the country and directed all High Courts to provide details of ongoing trials involving acid attack survivors. The Bench, led by the Chief Justice of India, issued notice in a PIL concerning the rights and protection of acid attack victims.

An acid attack survivor appeared in person before the Court and informed the Bench that the incident took place in 2009 and yet her trial had not concluded. The CJI asked her to file an application in the pending PIL so that appropriate directions for day-to-day trial could be considered. She also informed the Court that her case had been revived at the district level, which encouraged her to continue supporting other survivors.

The survivor further highlighted the plight of victims who are forced to ingest acid rather than suffer external burns cases that often result in severe physical limitations, including dependence on artificial feeding tubes. The Solicitor General submitted that such cases should be treated as disabilities for the purpose of legal protection and support.

The Bench indicated that trials relating to acid attacks should be handled by designated special courts to avoid unnecessary delays. It observed that prolonged pendency undermines both justice and the welfare of survivors.

The SG added that the incident in the present matter occurred in Haryana, and the CJI noted that the case had since been transferred to Rohini Courts in Delhi. The survivor was advised to file an application regarding the status of her own trial.

The matter will now proceed after Registrar Generals of all High Courts submit comprehensive data on pending acid attack trials nationwide.