Abstract

In India, despite an overall literacy rate of 77%, societal acceptance remains a challenge for various
aspects, including prostitution or sex work, which is believed to be one of the oldest professions
globally and a significant industry worth billions of dollars. However, discussing prostitution openly is
considered taboo in Indian society, and it is often looked down upon. The notion of completely
eradicating prostitution is unrealistic due to its ancient roots and longstanding existence. Many
women in India resort to sex work as a means of livelihood, particularly those lacking other skills or
literacy to secure alternative employment opportunities. While prostitution itself is not expressly
legalized, it operates in a legal grey area, while trafficking remains explicitly illegal.

According to the Indian Penal Code, prostitution in its broader sense is not really illegal per se but
there are certain activities which constitute a major part of prostitution are punishable under certain
provisions of the act. Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956 (ITPA) defines prostitution as sexual
exploitation or abuse of a female for monetary purposes and a prostitute is the person who gains
that commercial benefit. This act was passed in 1956 and is also referred as SITA.

Key word : Trafficking , Taboo, Prostitution , ITPA, SITA , IPC