Punishment Rate in Sexual Crime Cases Drops Under 1% in Punjab

In Punjab, the conviction rate for sexual crime cases remains shockingly low at under 1%, according to recent data. Over 18,000 such cases have been reported since 2015, but only 77 individuals have been convicted. The lack of convictions is attributed to significant issues with investigation procedures and the loss of critical evidence.

Forensic officials have highlighted weaknesses in evidence collection and preservation as major hurdles in these cases. They emphasize that the first 24 hours after an incident are crucial for gathering evidence that can aid in suspect identification and prosecution. Despite this, in seven cases involving the sexual assault and murder of young girls in Kasur, police failed to seek forensic assistance.

However, in one case, forensic analysis helped identify and trace the killer. Forensic experts also pointed out flawed DNA profiling as a contributing factor in cases where suspects could not be traced. To address these shortcomings, training programs for police and prosecution personnel have commenced, focusing on proper evidence collection and preservation during the first 24 hours of investigation.

Additionally, personnel from the Women Protection Authority have been trained to bolster investigations into sexual crimes. The Punjab authorities are taking steps to improve the situation, but the rate of punishment for sexual crimes remains alarmingly low.