ISLAMABAD: DNA samples cannot be used as primary evidence in rape cases, an Islamic body that advises the Pakistan government said.

The Council of Islamic Ideology , a constitutional body, ruled that Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sample is not acceptable as primary evidence in case of a rape. However, they can be used as secondary or supporting evidence.

The decision was made at a meeting of the council chaired by Maulana Muhammad Khan Sherani. The council announced that Islamic law and teachings contained procedures to decide cases of rape.

The council further said the controversial blasphemy law should not be amended and declared that human cloning was prohibited under Islamic law.

Besides advising the Pakistan government on religious issues, the council advises legislature whether a law is "repugnant to Islam".

The council comprises experts from different schools of Islamic thought with knowledge of the "principles and philosophy of Islam" and understanding of the economic, political, legal or administrative problems of Pakistan. At least two members of the council are sitting or retired judges of the Supreme Court or a high court.

Rights groups contend that rape victims in Pakistan are already at a disadvantage because of the controversial Hudood law, which states a woman alleging rape has to produce four adult male witnesses.

