: Economic desperation is cited as the primary driver for women entering sex work in Odisha, often exacerbated by natural disasters or social exploitation.
The sex trade in Jharsuguda is largely decentralized and frequently targeted by local law enforcement: jharsuguda red light area
The red light area in Jharsuguda has been in existence for several decades, with many women and girls being forced into sex work due to poverty, lack of education, and limited job opportunities. The area is a hub of commercial sex work, with many brothels, lodges, and hotels catering to clients from across the region. : Economic desperation is cited as the primary
: Under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act , activities such as running a brothel, pimping, and soliciting in public places are strictly prohibited. : Under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act ,
: Thousands of workers from neighboring states live without families, creating a demand for commercial sex.
Example vignette: “A 30-year-old woman supports two children and combines informal domestic work with sex work to manage irregular factory wages.”