NEW DELHI, Dec 4: The Supreme Court on Thursday directed all High Courts across the country to furnish details of pending trials related to acid attack cases. The apex court said that such matters must be monitored closely to ensure speedy justice for victims and accountability in the judicial process.
A bench headed by Justice Surya Kant observed that acid attack survivors continue to face prolonged delays in trial proceedings, which adds to their trauma and undermines the deterrent effect of the law. The court stressed that High Courts must compile and submit comprehensive data on the number of pending cases, their stage of trial, and reasons for delay.
The directive came during the hearing of a petition seeking stricter enforcement of laws against acid attacks and better rehabilitation measures for survivors. The bench noted that despite earlier directions on regulating the sale of acid and providing compensation, many victims still struggle to access timely justice and adequate support.
“We need to know the ground reality. Unless High Courts provide us with accurate information, we cannot frame effective directions to ensure justice for survivors,” the bench remarked, underlining the importance of transparency and accountability in handling such sensitive cases.
The Supreme Court also asked the Union government and state authorities to coordinate with judicial institutions to strengthen mechanisms for victim support, including medical care, rehabilitation, and financial assistance. It emphasised that acid attack cases must be treated as priority matters given their grave impact on human dignity and rights.
The matter will be taken up again after the High Courts submit their reports, with the apex court expected to issue further directions to streamline trial processes and enhance survivor support systems.
