Medicolegal Analysis of Reported Cases of Alleged Rape in Multan- A Two Year Study

Background: Among all the crimes, sex related crimes against women are the most heinous and humiliating that are fast growing in Pakistan. Aim: To ascertain incidence of sexual violence against women in Multan and to analyze the data with respect to epidemiological and demographic characteristics, findings of medicolegal examination and results of evidence collection from victims of sexual assault. Method: This retrospective study was conducted on 81 cases of sexual assault brought to Forensic Medicine Department of Nishtar Medical College, Multan from January 2012 to December 2013 for medicolegal examination. Details pertaining to socio-demographic profile of the victim, incident, findings of medical and genital examination and results of evidence collected were noted. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Result: Out of 81 victims of sexual assault, the most affected age group was 11-20 years (61.7%). 57.9% of the victims knew the assailants. The highest number of incidents was committed at an isolated place 82.7%. 53% cases were of gang rape. 65.4% were examined after 72 hours of the incident. 14.8% victims had nongenital injuries, 7.4% had genital injuries while 1.2% had combined genital and extra-genital injuries. Rupture of hymen was found in 97.4% victims of which majority (62.9%) had old tears. Semen was detected in 30.8% cases. 2.4% victims were pregnant at the time of examination. Conclusion: The success of the efforts aimed at curbing violence against woman relies on the implementation of an integrated strategy with proper monitoring regarding laws, government policies, and role of civil society and the media.