The Supreme Court of India has taken a significant step in addressing the welfare of acid attack victims, ordering that they receive compensation without delay.
During a hearing on a petition related to acid attack victims, the court expressed dissatisfaction over the delay in responses from various state governments, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh.
The Court specifically instructed NALSA (National Legal Services Authority) to ensure victims receive their due compensation on time.
Court’s Directive To Private Hospitals
The Court also addressed a critical issue during the proceedings. It expressed concern that some private hospitals were refusing to treat acid attack victims.
The Court urged that if any private hospital denies treatment to acid attack survivors, judicial and legal services authorities must be informed immediately.
This measure ensures that victims receive medical care, even if a hospital refuses treatment.
State Governments Face Court’s Wrath
The Court expressed frustration as several state governments failed to submit their responses on time.
Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, leading the bench, demanded that they file their responses quickly.
The Court emphasized that the government’s delay in addressing the issue had taken too long, and immediate action was necessary to resolve the matter.
A key point raised by the petitioner’s lawyer was the lack of compensation for victims of acid attacks, with one particular case being that of a four-year-old girl, who had not received any compensation for her suffering.
The Court highlighted that many victims had not yet received the financial assistance they were entitled to under the existing guidelines.
In a previous ruling, the Supreme Court had issued guidelines instructing state governments to provide at least three lakh rupees to acid attack victims to cover medical treatment and rehabilitation.
The Court directed the government to provide one lakh rupees within 15 days of reporting the attack, and the government must give the remainder within two months.
Further Steps & NALSA’s Role
The Supreme Court’s latest directions underscore its commitment to improving the situation for acid attack survivors.
The Court instructed NALSA to oversee the timely distribution of compensation and ensure that all victims receive the necessary financial and medical support.
Moreover, the Court emphasized that victims can approach legal services officers if they face delays or issues in receiving compensation.
The Supreme Court’s ruling is a critical step forward in the fight for justice for acid attack victims.
By ensuring timely compensation, medical treatment, and the involvement of legal authorities, the Court aims to reduce the suffering of survivors and hold accountable those who have failed to meet their responsibilities.
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