Supreme Court Expresses Concern Over Delayed Acid Attack Cases

The Supreme Court has voiced its dismay over the extensive delays in acid attack cases, some stretching over 16 years. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud emphasized the need for accountability within the judicial system, questioning the ability of the national capital to handle such serious issues. Victims, including a petitioner who personally appeared in court, highlighted the lack of action in their cases. The court also discussed the severe disabilities faced by victims and the classification of these cases under disability rights. With 844 acid attack cases pending nationwide, the urgency for reform and swift trials has never been more critical.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 6, 2025, 17:30 IST

Supreme Court's Reaction to Prolonged Delays

In a recent case concerning acid attacks, the Supreme Court has expressed astonishment at the delays exceeding 16 years. The bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, highlighted that the crime dates back to 2009, yet the trial remains incomplete. The Chief Justice questioned, "If the national capital cannot address such challenges, who will? This is a disgrace to the system!" He instructed all High Court registrars to provide weekly updates on pending acid attack cases within their jurisdictions.

Victim's Personal Plea

The petitioner, a victim herself, appeared in court personally, stating that no action had been taken in her case until 2013. The trial is currently ongoing at the Rohini Court and is now nearing its final stages.

Rights for Disabled Victims

The court also addressed the issue that acid is not only thrown but can also be forced upon victims to drink. Such victims often face long-term severe disabilities, with many unable to walk and reliant on artificial feeding tubes. The current petition is a public interest litigation concerning these victims. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that these cases should be classified under the 'Disability' provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

CJI's Remarks on Acid Drinking Cases

Justice Chandrachud referred to victims who have been made to consume acid, highlighting their severe disabilities and dependence on feeding tubes. He noted that while he had heard of acid being thrown, he had not encountered cases of it being ingested. Given the seriousness of these crimes, he insisted that trials should occur in special courts, emphasizing that there should be no sympathy for the accused.

Statistics on Pending Acid Attack Cases

According to the National Crime Records Bureau, there are currently 844 pending acid attack cases across various courts. The figures released in a report for 2025 reflect data up to 2023. The NCRB indicates a rise in acid attack incidents in India since 2021. A report from Florida International University in 2024 suggests that India sees between 250 to 300 acid attack cases annually, with the actual number potentially exceeding 1,000 due to underreporting stemming from fear, social pressure, and legal complications.