Body For Sale
- Sraddha R
- Jan 30, 2024
- 2 min read
Trigger warning- discussions of sex work
Written by Sraddha Edited by Aishwarya
Illustrated by Ilakiya P B
__________________________________________________________________________________
Prostitution in India has a deep-rooted history that goes back through the ages. Back in the 19th century, the Courtesans of Lucknow resisted male dominance and created themselves an elite position by taking control over their bodies by being the purveyors of sexual pleasures and entertainment. While many courtesans had romantic relationships with men, some sought true sexual pleasure through connections with women, playing a part in LGBTQ+ history. The ancient text Kamasutra, not only outlines guidelines for courtesans’ but also portrays them as possessors of immense power, underscoring the influential nature of their profession.
However, in today’s world, the profession is stigmatised like no other. The same profession that was once revered for the empowerment it provided to courtesans is now plagued by misconceptions and prejudice. Instead of acknowledging the agency these people had over their bodies, there is a widespread stigma that casts a pall over their livelihoods. This shift in perception not only denies them basic human rights but also undermines their dignity.
Adding to these challenges are outdated laws and the criminalisation of sex work, exacerbating the struggles faced by those on the fringes of society. While prostitution is not entirely criminalised in India, certain aspects of it are subject to legal restrictions in order to reduce its prevalence. However, the unintended consequence of this partial criminalisation approach creates a paradoxical situation in which the attempt to curb prostitution inadvertently exposes those involved to increased risks while ignoring the individuals' fundamental rights and safety. By criminalising specific elements, the law unintentionally creates an environment in which sex workers are pushed further to the margins, with no legal protection or support.
Ensuring the safety of sex workers requires strong legal frameworks that support and regulate prostitution. Such measures not only protect sex workers' rights and safety, but they also play an important role in combating human trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable individuals within the industry. These measures help in preventing the illegal engagement of minors, ensuring that those engaging in sex work are of legal age and consenting and reducing instances of abuse and rape.
In the Indian society, sex work is often looked down upon but rarely openly addressed. The hush-hush contributes to a lack of awareness about the challenges faced by sex workers and perpetuates stereotypes. It's time to break the silence, promote compassion, and move towards a society that respects the dignity of individuals, recognising that every life is more than just a "body for sale."
REFERENCES:
Comments