Delhi: Rape accused throws acid on survivor's daughter, dies by suicide

A 17-year-old girl was attacked with acid by a man in central Delhi, as he sought to coerce her mother into withdrawing a rape case filed against him, police said on Thursday, 7 December.

The man, identified as Prem Singh, 54 not only poured acid on the girl but also consumed some of it himself.

He succumbed to his injuries during the treatment.

According to police, on Thursday, the police received a PCR call regarding an acid attack. Upon reaching the spot, a police team found that the injured victim and the alleged perpetrator had already been taken to RML Hospital by the PCR.

"The Investigating Officer promptly arrived at RML Hospital and identified the injured as a 17-year-old minor, and the alleged assailant as Prem Singh, both receiving treatment in the RML Emergency ward," a senior police official said.

The victim, and the complainant, disclosed that her mother had previously filed a rape case against Singh, their neighbour, and he was on interim bail, granted on 29 November, for a family-related event.

According to the complainant, on Thursday morning, 7 December, Singh allegedly threatened her to withdraw the rape case filed by her mother against him. When she refused, Singh purportedly poured acid on her. He also consumed some of the acid himself.

"Prem Singh succumbed to his injuries during treatment at RML Hospital. The victim, having sustained minor injuries, has been discharged from the hospital following medical attention," a senior police official said.

"A case under relevant sections of the IPC was registered at Anand Parbat police station," the official said.

Acid attacks, which inflict immediate damage, disfigurement, intense pain, and enduring medical complications, were not recognised as distinct crimes until the groundbreaking 2013 Supreme Court judgement.

Presently, the punishment for acid attacks falls under Section 326A of the IPC, addressing crimes that intentionally cause grievous hurt using dangerous weapons or means. This offense carries a minimum imprisonment of 10 years, extendable to life, coupled with a fine.

Despite these legal measures, acid attacks against women in India are on the rise.