The National Assembly has approved the Anti-Rape (Amendment) Bill 2026, introducing stricter legal measures against Child Abuse, sexual assault, and physical exploitation.
The new law declares offenses related to Child Abuse and child exploitation as non-bailable. This step aims to ensure stronger protection for minors and improve the legal process for victims.
Under the amendment, law enforcement agencies must ensure that child victims receive a medical examination within 24 hours. The examination must be conducted by a certified forensic expert.
The law introduces clear safeguards to protect victims during this process. These protections are designed to maintain the dignity, privacy, and security of children affected by Child Abuse.
Any forensic evidence collected during the examination will become part of the official investigation. This evidence will help strengthen legal proceedings and improve case handling.
The amendment also places strict conditions on bail in such cases. Courts will not be allowed to grant bail except in extraordinary circumstances.
Even in rare situations, judges must consider the best interests of the child before making a decision. Courts must also review any risks faced by the victim.
These risks include possible threats, intimidation, or harm from the accused. Lawmakers said these measures are essential to improving justice in Child Abuse cases.
In a separate development, another bill was introduced to increase penalties for the sale and display of obscene material.
The proposed law seeks amendments to Sections 292, 293, and 294 of the Pakistan Penal Code. Changes have also been proposed to Schedule II of the Code of Criminal Procedure.
The legislation would impose stricter punishment for offenses involving obscene books, paintings, drawings, images, sculptures, and similar material.
Lawmakers said the purpose is to curb the growing circulation of inappropriate content.
If approved, punishment for selling or exhibiting obscene material could increase to two years in prison. Offenders may also face fines of up to Rs. 200,000.
The bill also targets the commercial import, export, and transportation of obscene material. Those convicted could face two years in jail.
Advertisements promoting obscene material would also become a criminal offense.
The proposed legislation places special focus on protecting minors. Selling or showing such material to individuals under 20 could result in prison terms and financial penalties.
In other news read more about Imaan Mazari’s Family Alleges Abuse in Jail While She’s Expecting a Child
Lawmakers said these legal reforms are necessary to fight Child Abuse, protect young people, and create a safer environment for children across Pakistan.
