ISLAMABAD – The Supreme Court has dismissed a plea seeking leniency on the basis of age in a severe acid attack case. The court upheld the life imprisonment sentence of convict Abdul Mannan. It also issued strong directions for reforms in such cases.
The case was heard by a three-member bench of the Supreme Court. The bench was headed by Justice Hashim Khan Kakar. It also included Justice Salahuddin Panhwar and Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim. The detailed 13-page judgment was written by Justice Hashim Khan Kakar.
The court rejected the petition filed by Abdul Mannan. He had attacked a woman, Iqra Parveen, with acid in Faisalabad. The Supreme Court maintained his life imprisonment and also ordered him to pay Rs1 million compensation to the victim.
In its remarks, the court said that age cannot be used as a shield in brutal and planned crimes. The Supreme Court observed that acid attacks are extremely serious offenses. It noted that such crimes cause lifelong physical and mental suffering.
The judgment stated that acid violence is worse than many other crimes. It explained that victims often live with permanent injuries and trauma. The court described victims as facing lifelong suffering similar to “living death.”
The Supreme Court also issued important instructions for the justice system. It ordered that all acid attack trials must be completed within four months. It also directed High Courts to closely monitor these cases.
A complete ban on open sale of acid was also ordered. The court called for a biometric and digital tracking system for acid sales. Buyers will be required to show identification and complete verification procedures.
The Supreme Court further directed the government to set up a National Acid Survivors’ Rehabilitation Fund. It also ordered disability certificates for affected victims. The court recommended job quotas for survivors in government institutions.
According to the judgment, all medical and surgical expenses must be paid by the state. This includes plastic surgery and psychological treatment. The court also suggested monthly financial support for victims who cannot work.
It further emphasized rehabilitation programs for social and mental recovery. The court said survivors often face “social death” due to stigma. It urged proper support systems to help them reintegrate into society.
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Finally, the Registrar was directed to circulate the judgment widely. Copies will be sent to all High Courts, law authorities, and provincial departments for implementation.
