Being Realistic

Was watching a documentary on the sex trade in India, which focussed on red light areas in Mumbai (Bombay) and Calcutta. If you have read anything i write, you will see that i focus more on the theory rather than ground reality; more on broad generalizations rather than direct answers to questions posed.

As i continued to watch the documentary, my initial reaction was that it was immoral and how wrong it was that even children became unwilling actors in this tragedy. What i realized that such a view will never help in finding a solution. Prostitution is the oldest profession and my views only prevent me from seeing the reality of the situation.

I was surprised by what the women in Calcutta had to say; the very same women who practise this profession. Their concern was simple. They did not want to be harassed by the police - who only took bribes and requested sexual favours after an arrest - and wanted to make sure that their health was not compromized. To address this, they formed a labour union! They advice each other on issues that matter to them. They want their profession to be legally recognized so that like other professions, the minimum age limit becomes applicable and minors' rights are protected.

Not once did they talk about morality. They focussed on finding solutions and nothing else.