Syllabus: Women related issues
Context and Case Background
- A Delhi court acquitted accused in a 2009 acid attack case on December 24, 2025. Survivor Shaheen Malik, attacked at age 26, lost vision in one eye. She underwent 25 reconstructive surgeries and fought a 16-year legal battle.
What are Acid Attacks?
- Acid attacks involve throwing or administering corrosive substances to cause harm.
- Common acids used include sulphuric, hydrochloric, and nitric acids.
- Effects include severe burns, disfigurement, blindness, maiming, and psychological trauma.
- Victims are predominantly women and young girls, while perpetrators are usually men.
Trends and Statistics
- NCRB 2023 recorded 207 acid attack cases, up from 202 in 2022.
- 65 cases of attempted acid attacks were also reported in 2023.
- 703 cases were pending in courts during 2023.
- Only 16 convictions and 27 acquittals occurred in that year.
- Worst affected States were West Bengal (57), Uttar Pradesh (31), and Gujarat (15).
- It is estimated actual cases may be around 1,000 annually, indicating under-reporting.
Reasons for Under-reporting and Low Convictions
- Social stigma, family pressure, and fear of retaliation deter reporting.
- Police investigations are often delayed or poorly conducted.
- Judicial delays result in prolonged trials, weakening survivor confidence.
- Survivors are frequently pushed towards out-of-court settlements.
Legal Framework
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Section 124 prescribes 10 years to life imprisonment.
- Attempted acid attacks attract 5–7 years’ imprisonment.
- Hospitals must provide free treatment to survivors.
- Supreme Court (2013) mandated regulated acid sales, but enforcement remains weak.
Support and Way Forward
- Survivors demand a comprehensive ban on acid sales and stricter monitoring.
- Bangladesh’s 2002 laws reduced attacks significantly through strict enforcement.
- Need for fast-track courts, judicial sensitisation, and penalising delays.
- Justice J.S. Verma Committee recommendation for a national survivor rehabilitation fund must be implemented.
