Islamabad: The Supreme Court of Pakistan has ruled that acid attacks are “worse than murder.” It upheld a life sentence in a Faisalabad case. The court also called for stronger protection and long-term rehabilitation for survivors.
According to Beyond Time News, the court dismissed the appeal of convict Abdul Manan. It maintained the life imprisonment awarded by the Anti-Terrorism Court in Faisalabad. The Lahore High Court had already confirmed the sentence earlier.
Court Upholds Life Sentence and Compensation
The Supreme Court also ordered the convict to pay Rs1 million as compensation to the victim, Iqra Perveen.
The case relates to an attack that took place on September 4, 2019. Abdul Manan threw acid on the victim while she was cooking at home. The attack caused severe injuries and permanent disfigurement.
He was convicted under Section 336-B of the Pakistan Penal Code. The court sentenced him to rigorous life imprisonment.
Acid Attacks Described as “Living Death”
The judgment, written by Justice Muhammad Hashim Khan Kakar, strongly condemned acid violence. The court said acid attacks create a “living death.”
Unlike murder, the court explained, acid attacks do not end life. Instead, they leave victims alive but permanently injured.
Moreover, survivors face constant pain and psychological trauma. They also suffer social isolation and long-term disability.
The court said attackers aim not only to injure victims. They try to destroy identity and dignity as well.
Court Highlights Gender-Based Violence
The judgment linked acid attacks to gender-based violence. It noted that such crimes often follow rejected marriage proposals or personal disputes.
In addition, the court said attackers often want to cause “social death.” Women remain the most common targets in such cases.
The court also cited earlier observations by former Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khan Khosa. He had described acid attacks as worse than murder due to their lasting damage.
Survivors Recognized as Persons with Disabilities
Importantly, the Supreme Court ruled that acid attack survivors with permanent injuries qualify as Persons with Disabilities.
As a result, they will be eligible for disability certificates. They can also access job quotas, education support, and government welfare programs.
This step aims to improve financial and social protection for survivors.
Read more:Quetta Hospital Acid Attack Leaves Female Doctor Injured, Suspect Killed in Police Encounter
Court Calls for National Rehabilitation Fund
Furthermore, the court urged the government to create a National Acid Survivors’ Rehabilitation Fund.
It recommended several key measures:
- Full medical coverage for reconstructive surgeries
- Free access to psychological and psychiatric treatment
- Monthly financial support for survivors who cannot work
- National guidelines for lifelong treatment in public and private hospitals
The court stressed that survivors need long-term care. Therefore, the state must ensure continuous support.
Strong Message on Justice and Prevention
The judgment sent a clear warning against acid violence. The court said authorities must enforce laws strictly.
It also urged stronger prevention strategies. In addition, it called for faster trials and better victim protection systems.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s ruling marks a major step in addressing acid violence in Pakistan. It confirmed that such attacks are among the most brutal crimes.
At the same time, the court pushed for stronger rehabilitation systems. These measures aim to restore dignity, health, and financial independence for survivors.
FAQs
Why did the court call acid attacks worse than murder?
Because victims survive but suffer permanent physical and psychological damage.
What sentence was upheld in this case?
The court upheld life imprisonment and ordered Rs1 million compensation.
What rights did the court grant to survivors?
It ruled that survivors should be treated as Persons with Disabilities.
What is the proposed rehabilitation plan?
It includes medical treatment, mental health care, financial support, and a national fund.
What was the main case about?
A man attacked a woman with acid in Faisalabad in 2019, causing severe injuries.
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