Prajwala vs. Union of India: distinguishing between sex worker autonomy and human trafficking victims

Professor Prabha Kotiswaran is a Professor of Law and Social Justice. Her main areas of research include criminal law, transnational criminal law, feminist legal studies and sociology of law. She has edited and co-authored a number of influential books on sex work, trafficking, feminism and the law, and is a leading voice on gender, labour and social justice.

On this episode of women on the line, Prabha tells us about Prajwala v. Union of India, a recent landmark Supreme Court case that makes the vital distinction between autonomous sex workers and victims of trafficking, as well as recognises that those who are survivors of sex trafficking have a right to meaningful rehabilitation, support and opportunities to rebuild their lives.

Content warning: mentions of sexual assault, suicide