Sex workers oppose amendment to Immoral Trafficking Act

Mysore, May 25 (UNI) Speakers at the National Conference of Sex Workers Organisations today took strong exception to the Union Government's proposed move to amend the Immoral Trafficking Prevention Act.

The two-day conference, which began here today, was organised by the Ashodaya Mahila Samanwaya Samithi (AMSS) in association with WINS organisation, Tirupati, Savera-New Delhi, Kerala Sex Workers Union, Darb Mahila Samanuya Samithi, Kolkata, and VAMP from Sangli in Maharashtra.

AMSS Secretary Bhagyalakshmi explained in detail the facilities provided for sex workers from their organisations and various awareness programmes conducted for their cause.

Stating that the organisations were opposed to the police penalising its clients and lodge owners, she said their clients should not be arrested without an order from the Deputy Commissioner.

Ms Bhagyalakshmi said the meeting would discuss various issues, including the need to build a broader alliance among sex workers at the national level.

More than 150 sex workers, including men, women and eunuchs, from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal and Kerala were participating in the conference.

Karnataka Health Minister R Ashok would launch smart cards for sex workers here tomorrow.

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