Pune’s Sex Workers Face New Threat As Content Creators Violate Privacy
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Renuka Suryavanshi
In Pune’s Budhwar Peth red-light district, content creators have begun filming without consent, exposing the identities of sex workers who rely on anonymity to protect their personal lives. These videos, shared online, often show the faces and locations of women who entered the trade out of economic necessity. For many, this uninvited exposure has led to distressing family confrontations and, in some cases, complete alienation.
One woman shared that her son found a video featuring her on social media platforms, leading to judgment and separation from her family. “I’ve done this work for years to survive, but now my family has cut me off,” she said, describing the emotional toll of being exposed.
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To counter these invasions of privacy, the Pune District Legal Services Authority (PDLSA) has joined forces with Faraskhana Police, putting up warnings throughout the area. These signs prohibit filming without permission, marking a new effort to protect the rights of these women.
To address these issues, the PDLSA Secretary, Sonal Patil, emphasized awareness, referring to the Supreme Court’s 2011 ruling that upholds the rights of sex workers. “They have a right to dignity and protection under Article 21 of the Constitution,” Patil said, citing penalties under the IT Act for violations, including imprisonment and fines.
Balwadkar
Content creators and curious teens come here, disregarding the women’s privacy. It’s the women who face the consequences. These women whom we met during a meeting stated that such acts have hampered their life greatly. There are provisions under the IT Act which we think can be used as a shield to protect the identity of these women and also ensure that it doesn’t affect their working. We immediately took the steps of installing these boards, added Patil.
Faraskhana Police affirmed their commitment to safeguarding the privacy of Budhwar Peth residents, noting that complaints are taken seriously. Police efforts now include public education to reinforce the rights of sex workers and curb illegal filming practices in the area.
