'Shame on...system': SC after acid-attack survivor alleges 16-year trial delay
What's the story
The Supreme Court has sought data from all high courts on pending trials in acid attack cases. The decision was taken by a bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi while hearing a plea related to the plight of acid attack survivors. The petition was filed by an acid attack survivor, who appeared before the court, detailing her experience with the prolonged trial process.
Trial delay
Survivor recounts 16-year-long trial delay
The survivor, who was attacked in 2009, said the trial is still ongoing. "Mere saath 2009 mein attack hua tha, abhi tak trial chal raha hai," she said. She said the case is now at the final hearing stage in Rohini, Delhi. CJI Surya Kant expressed shock, saying, "The offense is of 2009 and the trial is not completed! If National Capital cannot respond to these challenges then who will deal with it? It is a shame on the system!"
Trial urgency
Survivor's plea highlights need for day-to-day trials
The survivor also highlighted cases where acid is forced down victims' throats, causing severe disabilities. These victims often can't walk and depend on artificial food pipes, she said. Taking note, CJI Surya Kant stressed that trials in these cases must be held on a day-to-day basis and asked the survivor to file an application for expedited proceedings.
Legal provisions
Solicitor General agrees on need for special courts
Appearing for the Union of India, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said such cases should be treated as disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The CJI then suggested amending the Act to include acid attack survivors, which SG Mehta supported. The CJI further said these offenses should be tried in Special Courts due to their severity. "This is a mockery of the system... there should be no sympathy for such persons (accused)," the CJI said.
Court order
Supreme Court issues notice, directs data submission
In conclusion, the bench ordered, "Issue notice. Learned Solicitor General, who was present in the court, has graciously accepted notice." It also directed all high courts to submit details of pending trials in acid attack cases. The Solicitor General informed that the survivor's incident happened in Haryana and suggested impleading the state. However, the bench clarified that it had been transferred to Delhi and asked her to seek expeditious completion of her trial there.