A Critique of the Abolitionist Approach to Regulate Prostitution in India

Abstract

This paper is based on the current approach of Indian law towards regulating prostitution in the country. It analyses the context in which sex workers in India are criminalized for their activities. Furthermore, it amplifies their vulnerable voices towards legislative bodies and calls for a decriminalization of prostitution in India. The article argues that there is a need for a change in India’s abolitionist approach to regulating prostitution in the country. As such, the provisions of the IT(P)A need to be restructured as their anti- sex worker spirit is embodied in its every provision. The sex workers are perceived to be mere victims of prostitution through the lens of the law owing to the ‘immoral’ nature of their work. This further leads to their rejection as professionals providing services in the sex industry.