Today, the Delhi High Court refiused to ban on the complete sale of acid in the Delhi. The case was heard before the division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Sanjeev Narula.

While giving the judgement, the Court said that it could adversely affect businesses and individuals who require it for lawful purposes.

Further, the Court directed the State government to implement strict rules and regulations for the sale of acid and prevent its misuse for crime.

Further, the Court said in cases of non-compliance of the rules or unlawful sale of acid, the authorities must take swift and decisive action against the offenders.

"The issue demands continued vigilance and proactive measures. While a regulatory mechanism is in place, we believe much more needs to be done. The Delhi Poisons Possession and Sale Rules, 2015 incorporate provisions that permit sale of acid to vendors who are licensed at the discretion of the licensing authority. The license is issued only to applicants who demonstrate compliance with the stipulated provisions."

"These provisions must be diligently and strictly enforced, and the State must ensure effective safeguards to ensure that acid does not fall into the hands of offenders. Therefore, rather than striking down the 2015 rules or directing a complete ban, we direct the Delhi government to ensure proper implementation of the existing legal framework," 

In the said matter, acid attact survivor filed a petition engaged in assisting such victims with aftercare, rehabilitation, legal recourse and pursuit of compensation, seeking for a total ban on over-the-counter sale of acid in retail stores across Delhi.

The high court said a total ban on sale of acid could have unintended consequences, affecting sectors where acid is responsibly and safely utilised, and added that striking a balance between public safety and the legitimate uses of acid for industrial and other regulated purposes is crucial.

"Acid serves various legitimate uses and applications in different industries, and a blanket prohibition could inadvertently affect businesses and individuals who require it for lawful purposes," it said.

The bench also directed the government to conduct a comprehensive empirical study aimed at assessing the potential consequences of a complete ban on acid sale on various sectors, individuals and businesses.

"Adopting an evidence-based approach will enable the State to better understand the existing policy, the ramifications of changes advocated by the petitioner and ascertain its impact on public safety, industry, and other legitimate uses of acid," it said.

"Based on the findings of the empirical study, the Delhi government can analyse and identify any gaps or shortcomings in the existing regulatory scheme and take a well-informed decision," it said.

The bench made it clear that its decision should not be construed as a complete closure to the debate on the issue and granted liberty to the petitioner to approach the court again in case of any breach in implementation of the regulations.