Sex offenders convicted of multiple rapes could face chemical castration in Pakistan after lawmakers on Wednesday passed a new anti-rape law aimed at speeding convictions and imposing punishments. tougher punishment.
It was launched in response to public outcry over the recent increase in rapes against women and children in the country, and growing demands to ensure justice for the victims. victims of sexual assault.
The bill stipulates that the Pakistani government must set up special courts across the country to expedite rape trials and ensure sexual abuse cases are decided “quickly, preferably as soon as possible.” within four months.”
Those convicted of gang rape are sentenced to death or life in prison.
Chemical castration is the use of drugs to reduce sexual desire or activity. This is a legal form of punishment in countries including South Korea, Poland, the Czech Republic, and in some US states.
Amnesty International said chemical castration was “cruel and inhumane” in a statement last December, when the bill was announced.
“Instead of trying to deflect attention,” said Amnesty, authorities should focus on the important work of reform that addresses the root causes of sexual violence and gives those living miss the justice they deserve.”
Less than 3% of sexual assault or rape cases lead to conviction in Pakistan, Reuters reported last December, citing the Karachi-based nonprofit War Against Rape.
In a landmark ruling in January, virginity tests on sexual assault survivors were outlawed in Pakistan’s most populous province, Punjab.
The so-called virginity tests, which include testing the hymen or inserting two fingers into the vagina, are invasive tests conducted in the belief that they can determine if a woman is a virgin. .
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