SC includes forcible acid ingestion survivors as "acid attack victims" under RPWD Act
The Supreme Court has expanded the definition of "acid attack victims" under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, to include individuals who were forcibly administered acid. Previously, the Act only recognized acid-throwing victims. This decision, made by a Bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, ensures that survivors of forcible acid ingestion can retrospectively claim disability benefits from the Act's inception. The court utilized its plenary powers under Article 142 for this. Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta mentioned a proposed amendment to the Act's Schedule. The court also recommended a comprehensive policy framework for the survivors' extensive medical treatment.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court has broadened the definition of "acid attack victims" in the RPWD Act, 2016, to include those forcibly administered acid.
- This ruling ensures retrospective disability benefits for these survivors, many of whom are women.
- The court exercised its plenary powers under Article 142 to issue this order.
- A comprehensive policy framework for survivors' medical treatment has been suggested by the court.
Exam Facts
- The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, is central to this ruling.
- The Supreme Court used its plenary powers under Article 142.
- Section 124 of the Indian Penal Code pertains to voluntarily causing grievous hurt.
- Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi were on the Bench.
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