Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan approved a law that will allow chemical castration of rapists and fast-tracking of sexual assault cases, a media report said on Tuesday.  

According to a report by Geo TV, the decision was taken during a federal cabinet meeting where the law ministry presented a draft of an anti-rape ordinance. However, the government has not made any official announcement regarding this yet. 

The draft includes increasing women’s role in policing, fast-tracking rape cases and witness protection, the report said. 

Pakistan PM Khan stressed on the issue as it was a “serious matter,” adding that no delay will be tolerated. 

“We need to ensure a safe environment for our citizens,” Khan said, reported PTI. He said that the law will be clear and transparent with strict enforcement.

Khan said the rape survivors will be able to register complaints without fear, and the Pakistan government will protect their identity.

The report said that some federal ministers have also recommended public hanging of the rape convicts. The cabinet has, in principle, approved strict severe punishment for rape convicts, as the Pakistani PM has said that castration will be a start. 

Faisal Javed Khan, senator of the ruling party Tehreek-i-Insaf, on Twitter has said the law will soon be presented in Parliament.

Speaking at a joint sitting of Parliament recently, Khan had said that the government will soon introduce a three-tier legislation, including registration of sex offenders, exemplary punishment for rape and child abuse, and effective policing.