Prostitution in Delhi is a complex issue, with both legal and illegal aspects. While prostitution itself is not illegal in India, many related activities such as soliciting, kerb crawling, owning or managing a brothel, and prostitution in a hotel are prohibited. Despite this, brothels and sex workers continue to operate in the city, with many located in the red-light district of Garstin Bastion Road (G.B. Road).

According to reports, there are over 1,000 sex workers in G.B. Road, with many more operating in other areas of the city. The sex workers in this area often face exploitation, abuse, and violence, and have little chance of escape. Many were kidnapped and sold to brothel owners, and some are forced into the trade against their will.

Significant impact on the sex workers in Delhi

However, there are also stories of sex workers who choose to engage in the profession, such as Kajal, who spends a significant amount of money each month to maintain her appearance and skills. Nisha Kapoor, a 26-year-old call center employee, also chose to become a sex worker to earn extra income.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the sex workers in Delhi, with many leaving the city due to lack of income and difficulty in finding clients. The All India Network of Sex Workers (AINSW) estimates that 60% of sex workers in Delhi have left the city.

Despite the challenges faced by sex workers, there are efforts to provide support and services to those in the industry. Organizations such as Kat-Katha, a non-governmental organization, work to provide education and job training to sex workers, with the goal of helping them leave the profession and find alternative employment.