Supreme Court Slams Flawed Acid Sale Rules
Public Lokpal
October 27, 2026
Supreme Court Slams Flawed Acid Sale Rules
The Supreme Court of India expressed deep concern over rising acid attack incidents, stating that current regulations governing the sale of retail acid have "miserably failed."
Addressing the Union Government, the apex court remarked that empathetic policy declarations mean little without strict ground-level enforcement.
The Bench emphasized that despite directives issued in 2013 requiring mandatory photo identification, buyer logging, and seller reporting, acid remains easily accessible over the counter.
Questioning why total bans have not been implemented, the court highlighted that safer, non-hazardous household cleaning alternatives exist.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court demanded accountability from state authorities and law enforcement for failing to stop illegal transactions.
Alongside regulatory reform, the court stressed the urgent need for emergency medical care, rehabilitation, and state-backed financial aid for survivors to rebuild their lives.