UNITED we stand and in debate we thrive. The clear divide between Indian NGOs on some of the issues related to AIDS made for interesting discussions. One view held that women in prostitution—victims of trafficking, being forced to service clients under slave like conditions—would benefit from abolition of prostitution. Others felt that since many commercial sex workers are in it by 'choice' and are often earning livelihood for entire families, legitimising their work should be encouraged through empowering and unionising them.
This brought up yet another debate on the "cruel mirage of choice". What kind of a 'choice' is it that makes a woman willing to sell her body for money? And what labour movement can be expected in a sector that can hardly fight for dignity, better working conditions or post-retirement benefits? The debate continues. So does the AIDS.
