In a shocking incident, a 75-year-old Ayurvedic doctor allegedly threw acid on his wife during a maintenance case hearing at a family court in Surat on Friday, triggering panic inside the courtroom and raising serious concerns over security at the court complex.
The attack took place on the fifth floor of Surat District Seva Sadan while court proceedings were underway. The incident reportedly occurred in the presence of the presiding judge, causing chaos among lawyers and court staff present in the courtroom.
Attack Occurred During Maintenance Case Hearing
According to reports, the couple had been separated since 2017 and were involved in multiple legal disputes related to maintenance and financial recovery.
The woman had filed several petitions in family court in 2021, 2023 and 2025, as well as cases in the district court in 2021 and 2024. Their ongoing legal battles had been continuing for several years.
In 2023, the husband had allegedly attacked his wife with a knife outside the district court, leading to an attempted murder case. He was out on bail when Friday’s hearing took place.
Accused Threw Acid After Dispute Over Settlement
The woman’s lawyer said the couple had appeared in court for a maintenance and recovery matter. During the hearing, the accused was seated in the row behind his wife.
He allegedly refused to accept certain settlement conditions and had been pressuring his wife to withdraw the attempted murder case filed against him. When she insisted on continuing the legal proceedings, the accused reportedly pulled out a bottle of acid and threw it at her.
The sudden attack caused panic inside the courtroom.
Woman and Lawyers Injured in Acid Attack
The victim suffered acid burns on her mouth and other parts of her body. The attack also damaged the lens of her left eye.
Several lawyers seated nearby were also affected by splashes of acid and were immediately provided medical attention.
Accused Consumes Poison After Attack
In a dramatic development after the assault, the accused allegedly consumed poison in an apparent suicide attempt. He was also rushed to a hospital for treatment.
Court security personnel quickly intervened and detained the accused before he could escape.
Police Launch Investigation Into Courtroom Attack
Police from Umra Police Station reached the court complex shortly after the incident and began an investigation.
The shocking attack inside a courtroom and in the presence of a judge has raised serious questions about security arrangements at the sensitive family court complex. Authorities have launched a detailed probe into the incident.
