Senate body proposes harsher punishments for rape convictions

Senator Aziz stressed the need for tougher sentences, stating, “The current punishment for rape is excessively lenient; we must impose severe penalties.”

He proposed life sentences for individuals found guilty of rape, as part of a broader effort to strengthen legal measures against sexual violence.

Supporting the bill, Senator Samina Zehri highlighted the outdated nature of current legislation, noting, “We are still operating under laws that are 50 years old, which need revision.” She echoed calls for reform to address the evolving nature of such crimes and the urgent need for more robust legal protections for women.

Additionally, Senator Aziz suggested a minimum sentence of 25 years for those convicted of rape, signaling the committee’s commitment to enacting stronger deterrents for sexual offenses.

The proposed amendments come in the wake of a concerning report by the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO), which revealed a rise in violence against women in Punjab.

According to the SSDO’s 2023 report, the province saw a 14.5% increase in cases of violence against women, with 10,201 incidents recorded under sections 354 and 509 of the Pakistan Penal Code. Lahore and Faisalabad were identified as the most affected districts.