Supreme Court Proposes Auction of Accused’s Assets to Compensate Acid Attack Victims

The Supreme Court suggested that the assets of accused persons in acid attack cases may be attached and auctioned to ensure compensation for victims.

The observation was made while hearing a public interest petition seeking stronger measures to address acid attack offences.

The Court said victims must be compensated even if the offender cannot afford to pay. It directed all States and Union Territories to submit year-wise data on acid attack cases, including incidents reported, filing of chargesheets, cases decided or pending, and victim details within 4 weeks. 

The Court also asked the Union government to consider whether legislative changes are required.

[Shaheen Malik v. UOI & Anr.]