Hawas mitani hai toh: Sonagachi sex worker makes POWERFUL statement on rape

Kolkata's Sonagachi, Asia's largest red-light district, has long been a subject of both intrigue and controversy. Nestled in the heart of the city, it stands as a symbol of an age-old profession that remains steeped in social stigma. But beyond its notorious reputation, Sonagachi raises critical questions about societal attitudes towards women and the persistent need for such establishments.

The Harsh Reality: Voices from Sonagachi

In one of the recent videos that have surfaced on social media shows, a woman working in Sonagachi recently spoke out, shedding light on a pressing societal issue. While speaking to one of the media persons, she stated, "If you wanted to satisfy your lust, you should have come to Sonagachi. What is the need to harass educated and working women?" Her words resonate deeply, pointing out a harsh reality—why should women, particularly those who are educated and working, be subjected to harassment when there are places like Sonagachi that exist to cater to such needs?

Asia का सबसे बड़ा रेड लाइट एरिया !! "कोलकाता का सोनागाछी है"

रेड लाइट एरिया में काम करने वाली ये महिला कह रही है हवस मिटानी है तो सोनागाछी आना था, पढ़ने लिखने और काम करने वाली महिलाओं को नोंचने की क्या जरूरत है ?

यह महान महिला ने समाज को आईना दिखा रही है अगर #Red_Light_Area… pic.twitter.com/a4ybFdtYeU

— MANOJ SHARMA LUCKNOW UP🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳 (@ManojSh28986262) August 21, 2024

Her statement is a powerful indictment of society, urging a reflection on the underlying causes of gender-based violence. The existence of red-light areas like Sonagachi, while controversial, raises an uncomfortable question: if these zones did not exist, what would be the state of women’s safety in the broader community?

Society’s Mirror: The Role of Red-Light Areas

The presence of a red-light district is often seen as a necessary evil, a buffer that protects other women from the predatory behaviour of men. But this viewpoint is both problematic and reductive. The woman’s comments challenge us to rethink this narrative. She is effectively holding up a mirror to society, asking why such zones are deemed necessary in the first place. Shouldn't the focus be on addressing the root causes of violence against women, rather than relying on red-light areas as a supposed solution?

A Critical Question: The Need for Red-Light Areas

The final question posed by the woman working in Sonagachi strikes at the heart of the debate: "Why do men need red-light areas? When women can live without red-light areas, why can't men?" This query challenges the deeply ingrained societal norms that perpetuate the existence of such districts. It calls for a deeper examination of gender dynamics and the responsibility of men in creating a safer, more equitable society.

The Broader Context: Kolkata’s Rape and Murder Case

This discussion becomes even more relevant in light of recent events in Kolkata. The city has been shaken by a brutal rape and murder case, which has reignited debates about women’s safety. The case underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of gender-based violence, rather than merely treating the symptoms.