The Supreme Court has ruled that acid attacks are more heinous than homicide. The landmark judgment came while dismissing an appeal by a convicted attacker.
Court Upholds Life Sentence in Acid Attack Case
A three-member Supreme Court bench upheld a Lahore High Court ruling. The bench included Justice Muhammad Hashim Khan Kakar, Justice Salahuddin Panhwar, and Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim.
The case involved Abdul Manan, convicted for attacking a young woman in Faisalabad. Previously, an Anti-Terrorism Court sentenced him to life imprisonment. Additionally, the court imposed a fine of Rs1 million.
In the judgment, Justice Kakar described acid violence as a devastating crime. He noted that survivors endure lifelong physical and psychological suffering. Furthermore, he stated that attackers seek to destroy victims’ identities and dignity.
Court Recommends Stronger Protections for Survivors
The Supreme Court urged federal and provincial governments to strengthen support systems. It recommended creating a National Acid Survivors’ Rehabilitation Fund. The proposed fund would cover reconstructive surgeries, physical therapy, and mental health treatment.
Moreover, the court suggested monthly stipends for survivors unable to support themselves financially. It also called for standardized rehabilitation guidelines across Pakistan.
Justice Kakar described acid violence as a tool of patriarchal dominance. He noted that many attacks follow marriage rejections, personal disputes, or dowry conflicts. According to the judgment, such violence often targets women and aims to inflict lasting social harm.
The court also recommended a complete ban on acid sales to private individuals. Additionally, it proposed a centralized digital monitoring system for legal acid purchases. Officials would track transactions through biometric verification and electronic records.
The judgment emphasized that strict enforcement remains essential to preventing future attacks and protecting survivors.
