The term “sex worker” refers to individuals who earn their livelihood through sex-related work. The general public often views sex work as an act against social morality, while the law largely treats it as illegal. This analysis examines the space that exists between these legal and moral positions and focuses on the social condition of sex workers who continue to exist within this contradiction. It analyses how this conflict affects their identity, dignity, and access to basic rights.The paper is primarily centered on the Indian constitutional and statutory framework governing sex work and examines how state regulations interact with society’s moral perception of sex workers. In order to develop a broader understanding, limited international references have also been used where relevant. Existing studies have mostly explained prostitution through poverty, lack of education, and social vulnerability, focusing mainly on the supply side of sex work. This discussion seeks to shift the focus toward the demand side by examining the extent to which moral suppression of sexual desire, legal restrictions, and social glorification of sexuality have also played a significant role in the persistence of prostitution. Using doctrinal legal analysis, historical examination of moral frameworks, and judicial interpretation, this study assesses the legal and social position of sex workers in India. It argues that despite possessing constitutional rights, sex workers continue to face social exclusion, and their children are often trapped in the same cycle of marginalization. The paper concludes that addressing moral stigma, improving sex education, and ensuring better legal execution are essential steps toward achieving equitable justice.
Akash Sharma (Mon,) studied this question.