Apex Court urges Government to support Sex Workers

On Monday, the Apex Court urged the Central Govt & State Govt to make immediate provisions for monetary sustenance, supply of food & basic amenities to sex workers amid the pandemic without insisting on identity documents such as ration cards.

A 3-Judge Bench led by Justice L. Nageswara Rao said that “They are are under severe distress now, something urgent has to be done. This deals with the survival of lakhs of people... You (Centre & State governments) should do something without waiting for our directions".

The Bench said relief measures should not be restricted to only those who approach authorities for help. An effort should be made to reach out to them, the court indicated.

“See whether from your end you can give some directions under the Disaster Management Act...” Justice Rao addressed Additional Solicitor General R.S. Suri, appearing for the Centre.

The Bench said that authorities may consider taking similiar steps for granting relief to sex workers as were taken for helping the transgender community amid Coronavirus pandemic & lockdown.

The Court scheduled the case for next week, asking the States to come ready with their proposals. 

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