The Allahabad High Court has directed the District Magistrate of Hapur to process and release the ex-gratia amount under the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund to a male acid attack survivor within four weeks. This decision underscores the importance of timely assistance and due sensitivity in handling cases involving acid attack victims.
A division bench comprising Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra and Justice Arun Kumar Singh Deshwal expressed concern over the delay in processing the survivor's claim, despite clear instructions from the Central Government. The bench emphasized the duty of state authorities to act promptly in such sensitive cases.
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Case Background
The petitioner, Aslam, was subjected to a severe acid attack in November 2016 when he was 27 years old. The attack resulted in extensive injuries across his body, leading to 100% disability. Seeking financial relief, he applied for ex-gratia compensation under the Central Government's welfare scheme.
Despite the Central Government’s communication on May 24, 2024, instructing the District Magistrate, Hapur, to verify and process the claim, no action had been taken on Aslam’s application. This inaction led him to file a writ petition before the High Court.
Court's Observations and Directions
"In matters involving acid attack victims, the authorities must exhibit due sensitivity,"
the bench remarked while addressing the issue. The court took note of the unjustified delay in providing the financial aid mandated under the government scheme.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the High Court directed the District Magistrate of Hapur to:
- Examine Aslam's claim without further delay.
- Ensure that the due amount, as per the relief scheme, is released within four weeks from the submission of the court order.
With this directive, the writ petition was disposed of.
Aslam was represented by advocates Mohammad Danish and Mohammad Iliyas. Additionally, he received support from Shaheen Malik, an acid attack survivor and the founder of Brave Souls Foundation, an NGO dedicated to assisting acid attack victims.
Case title - Aslam vs. Union Of India And 2 Others 2025
