Prostitution and Morality

Prostitution is as widespread as life itself. It exists in all parts of the world, even where it is regarded as illegal. The stamp of illegality in no way hampers its omnipresence, but only serves to drive it underground. Illegality also gives it a distorted shape, so that it exists in the most sordid of conditions. It becomes associated with criminality, forced induction of girls into the profession and epidemics like HIV and AIDS. In countries like India, where prostitution is illegal and punishable, forcing of young, innocent and poor girls into it is common. Once a girl is pushed into a brothel, she is virtually a prisoner, as the brothel is tightly guarded by criminals and hoodlums who would go to any extent to prevent her from escaping. The hapless girl does not thereafter see the light of the day, being confined to some dark, dingy room where customers force themselves upon her at all times of day and night. Not even a portion of the payment goes to the girl; it goes directly into the pockets of the brothel owners who are nothing but powerful criminals. The girl is forced to sell herself repeatedly, and all she dets in return is food and clothing to keep body and soul together.