Allahabad High Court Converts Acid Sale Regulation PIL into Suo Moto Case

Original Petitioner Withdraws, Court Continues Proceedings to Protect Public Interest

In a significant move, the Allahabad High Court has converted a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the regulation of acid sales in Uttar Pradesh into a suo moto proceeding. This decision came after the original petitioner, Anubhav Verma, expressed the desire to withdraw from the litigation. Despite the withdrawal, the court, emphasizing the importance of the issue and the need to serve justice, decided to maintain the proceedings independently.

The bench, comprising Justice Saumitra Dayal Singh and Justice Vivek Saran, acknowledged the petition's original intent to curb the unregulated sale of acid, which poses a severe risk to public safety. The judges noted that allowing the withdrawal of such a critical PIL could undermine public interest, thus necessitating the court's intervention to ensure justice is served.

The court has appointed Ms. Akansha Mishra and Ms. Utkarshini Singh as amicus curiae to assist in the continuation of the proceedings. Additionally, instructions have been sought from the State’s legal representative, Sri Arimardan Singh Rajput, the learned Additional Chief Standing Counsel.

The matter has been scheduled for a subsequent hearing on December 16, 2025, placing it among the top ten cases of the day, highlighting its importance. This step underscores the court's commitment to addressing public safety concerns related to acid sales, even as it navigates the procedural complexities of the case.

Bottom Line:

Public Interest Litigation regarding regulation of acid sales in Uttar Pradesh maintained as a suo moto proceeding after withdrawal by the original petitioner.

Statutory provision(s): Public Interest Litigation.

Anubhav Verma v. State of U.P., (Allahabad)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2822503