ISLAMABAD – The joint session of the parliament has approved anti-rape laws, thereby allowing the chemical castration of rapists convicted of repeat offenses.
Lawmakers have also approved legislation to ensure quicker convictions in assault cases through the establishment of special courts.
The development is aimed at controlling the increasing attacks on women and children in the country.
Chemical castration involves the use of medication to reduce testosterone and is typically used to lower libido and sexual activity.
The punishment is practised in Poland, South Korea, the Czech Republic and some U.S. states.
The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill 2021 bill was passed along with 33 other bills by the joint session of parliament on Wednesday. It seeks to amend the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860, and the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898.
“Chemical castration is a process duly notified by rules framed by the prime minister, whereby a person is rendered incapable of performing sexual intercourse for any period of his life, as may be determined by the court through administration of drugs which shall be conducted through a notified medical board,” according to the bill.
