Man sentenced to life imprisonment for Hawal acid attack, fined Rs 40 lakh

SRINAGAR — A court here on Wednesday sentenced a man to life imprisonment for his involvement in the Hawal acid attack on February 1, 2022.

According to details obtained by the news agency KNO, the court of Principal Sessions Judge Srinagar, Jawad Ahmed, announced the sentence against the main convict, Sajid Sheikh, a resident of Dalgate, who was found guilty under IPC sections 326-A for the brutal acid attack.

Alongside the life sentence, he has been ordered to pay a fine of Rs 40 lakh, enforceable from his assets as per section 421 (1) (b) of the Indian Penal Code.

Reflecting on the severity of the offence and the profound impact on the victim’s life, both physically and emotionally, the court deemed the maximum punishment necessary to ensure justice. The fine imposed serves not only as a punitive measure but also as a means to aid the victim’s ongoing medical treatment and recovery.

The case has been recommended to the Member Secretary, J&K Legal Service Authority to provide the maximum compensation under the J&K Victim Compensation Scheme, 2019.

In accordance with legal procedures, Sajid Sheikh has been informed of his right to appeal against the verdict. He has also been informed that copies of the judgment and sentence order will be provided to him at no cost.

“The court’s decision underscores a resolute stance against acts of violence, particularly those causing irreparable harm. It reaffirms the commitment to hold individuals accountable for their actions, sending a clear message that such atrocities will not be tolerated in society,” said a local while reacting to the court’s decision.