A Study on the Sex Workers’ Movement: Looking beyond Indian Legislation

Abstract

Sex work, involving the provision of sexual services in exchange for payment, is a prevalent practice in India. Despite being a signatory to numerous global agreements on women’s rights and having legislation prohibiting gender discrimination and abuse, India has failed to adequately safeguard the human rights of females, particularly those engaged in sex work. This paper explores the diverse nature of sex work in India, examining three distinct urban zones and challenging the inaccurate stereotype that portrays sex workers solely as oppressed victims. The paper delves into the legal landscape surrounding sex work in India, analysing the rights of sex workers and detailing the various legal provisions applicable to them. Historically, sex workers and their children have been among the most marginalized and neglected groups in society. However, recent attention from the Supreme Court has shed light on their plight, offering them the much-needed recognition they deserve. This article aims to illuminate the status of prostitution in India by scrutinizing pivotal judicial decisions that have shaped the legal framework surrounding sex work over time.