ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has approved, in principle, the chemical castration of rapists during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday.
During a meeting of the federal cabinet, the law ministry presented a draft of the anti-rape ordinance as promised by the government amid the rising incidents of sexual abuse and violence against women and children.
The draft stresses on the importance of harsh punishments , including the chemical castration of rapists in order to curb the growing sexual violence against the women and children in the country.
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Prime Minister Imran Khan also stressed on the importance of the draft saying that there should be no delay in the implementation of the law. “We need to ensure a safe environment for our citizens.” the premier said.
The premier said that the legislation should be clear and transparent with strict enforcement to curb such heinous acts. Furthermore, the premier said that once the law comes into effect, the rape survivors will be able to register complaints without fear while authorities will take special care to keep their identity confidential.
It is pertinent to mention that the draft also includes increasing of women in the policing system, fast-tracking rape cases and witness protection.
There were some cabinet members who proposed the public hanging of rapists while others demanded capital punishment be made part of the anti-rape law.
However, the premier said that the government will start with chemical claustration of rapists with the initial law get control of the situation where more and more innocent women and children fall victim to such crimes.
The Chairman Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting Faisal Javed Khan took to Twitter saying that the new draft will be approved soon by Parliament.
“Strict punishments against wild animals abusing children and women, special policing, fast track cases, protection of witnesses and victims, data bank of rapists, quick and expeditious investigations and other points have been drafted.” PTI senator said.
The Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari also took to Twitter after the meeting and stated, “The Cabinet approved in principle 2 critical Ordinances to deal holistically with the crime of rape & child abuse & to make the necessary amendments in the PPC: The Anti-Rape (Investigation & Trial) Ordinance 2020 & the Pakistan Penal Code (Amendment) Ordinance 2020.”
“CCLC will now finalise & it should become operational in next few days. Includes an expansive definition of rape, estab of special courts, Anti rape crisis cells, protection of victims & witnesses, prohibition of the “two-finger” test etc. These Ordinances were badly needed.” she added.
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