LAXMI V. UNION OF INDIA AND OTHERS: A CASE COMMENTARY

This case commentary looks at Laxmi v. Union of India (2014) as a turning point in how India understands and responds to acid attacks. It traces how the case exposed serious gaps in the law—from the easy sale of acid to the lack of proper punishment, compensation, and support for survivors. The paper explores how the Supreme Court stepped in, linking acid attacks to the right to life and dignity under Article 21, and directing stricter regulation, better medical care, and compensation. It also touches on the legal changes that followed, especially the introduction of Sections 326A and 326B in the IPC. At the same time, it reflects on a difficult truth: even with stronger laws, real change depends on how seriously they are implemented.