A man responsible for a horrific acid attack in Thane that left a woman severely injured in 2022 has been sentenced to life imprisonment. The Thane court’s ruling underscored the brutal nature of the offense, with the presiding judge declaring that the “ferocious and violent crime” had transformed the survivor’s existence into a “living hell.”
Additional Sessions Judge G. G. Bhansali found Kolimuddin Amir Shaikh, 49, a resident of Mumbai, guilty under Section 326-A of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to voluntarily causing grievous hurt by the use of acid. The judicial order, initially passed on February 3, was officially made public on Friday, February 6.
The incident dates back to April 22, 2022. As per court records, Kolimuddin, identified as a labourer from West Bengal, gained entry into the Thane residence of Taslima Shaikh. Taslima, a widow operating a tiffin service, had previously been in a relationship with the accused. Inside her home, he violently assaulted her by throwing nitric acid on her face, causing permanent disfigurement and extensive physical harm.
During the trial, Additional Public Prosecutor R. W. Pande presented a compelling case, calling nine witnesses to substantiate the charges and advocating for the harshest possible punishment for the perpetrator.
Judge Bhansali’s order highlighted the profound and enduring consequences of the attack. Beyond the visible physical wounds, the court recognized the “deep psychological trauma” inflicted upon the woman, reiterating that her life had become a “living hell.” The judge further stated unequivocally that it was “the most ferocious and violent crime against a woman.”
In addition to the life sentence, Kolimuddin Amir Shaikh was ordered to pay a fine of Rs 50,000. The court also issued a directive to the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), ensuring that the survivor receives appropriate assistance under the Victims’ Compensation Scheme.
