WORKERS OF THE DARK THAT NO ONE CARES ABOUT: THE STUDY OF THE SHAMED WOMEN IN THE CONTEXT OF THE INDIAN SOCIETY

AUTHORS – SOURAV CHAKRABORTY & AMAN KUMAR, STUDENT AT CHRIST (DEEMED TO BE) UNIVERSITY

Best Citation – SOURAV CHAKRABORTY & AMAN KUMAR, WORKERS OF THE DARK THAT NO ONE CARES ABOUT: THE STUDY OF THE SHAMED WOMEN IN THE CONTEXT OF THE INDIAN SOCIETY, Indian Journal of Legal Review (IJLR), 3 (2) of 2023, Pg. 18-29, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

ABSTRACT

In the beginning, the paper delves into the historical roots of prostitution in India, tracing its origins back to ancient scriptures and texts such as the Rig Veda, Sam Veda, Yajur Veda, Mahabharata, and Ramayana. It explores how prostitution, initially associated with beauty, entertainment, and art, gradually degraded value. The paper highlights the pivotal moment in history when the prominence and respectability of sex workers, known as devadasis, were abruptly shattered during British colonial rule. British officials began to exploit these women for sexual pleasure, leading to the degradation of their status and reputation within society. Examining the aspect of morality, the paper presents contrasting viewpoints. While some argue that prostitution commodifies human bodies and objectifies women, others contend that it is a legitimate form of work. The societal perception of prostitution as morally wrong stems from the belief that sexual intercourse can only occur within the confines of marriage. The paper explores the concept of public and private morality and the stigmatization and discrimination faced by them. Further ahead, the paper elaborates on the favouring arguments that justify the legalization of prostitution as a profession and Occupation. After that, the paper explains the critical legislation and statutory provisions which regulate prostitution in India. Lastly, it lists relevant landmark judgments of the Apex Court that further mutate the validity and regulation of Prostitution as a legalized profession.  Lastly, the paper explains the need to hear the plight of sex workers and work for their cause.