Islamabad, May 19, 2023 (PPI-OT): The Ministry of Law and Justice has recently become aware that the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has unilaterally established the National Sex Offender Register. Through this press release the Ministry of Law and Justice informs the public at large about the current status of the National Sex Offender Register established by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).

It has come to our attention that the register is being unilaterally exercised without proper legal sanction, prompting the Ministry of Law and Justice to issue a clarification. In accordance with the Section 24 of Anti-Rape (Investigation and Trial) Act, 2021, the Ministry of Law and Justice, together with the special committee, is responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of the National Sex Offender Register.

It is crucial to note that the register can only be considered legal if it is established in full compliance with the applicable law and rules. As it stands, the current National Sex Offender Register established by NADRA does not possess the necessary legal backing, which raises concerns about its efficacy and reliability.

The Ministry of Law and Justice emphasizes that any register aiming to serve as a tool for safeguarding communities and preventing sexual offenses must be established in consonance with the prescribed rules. It is of utmost importance to ensure that the National Sex Offender Register is developed and maintained with proper legal oversight. This entails adhering to the legislative framework outlined in the Anti-Rape (Investigation and Trial) Act, 2021 and following the guidelines set forth by the Ministry of Law and Justice.

For more information, contact:

Principal Information Officer,

Press Information Department (PID)

Tel: +92-51-9252323, +92-51-9252324

Fax: +92-51-9252325, +92-51-9252326

Email: piopid@gmail.com

Website: www.pid.gov.pk