The Devadasi System Thrives

UNI. - TIMES OF INDIA -10th Nov.1987: confirms that the practice of dedicating young Harijan girls (Mahars, Mangs, Dowris and Chambhar) at childhood to a goddess, and their initiation into prostitution when they attain puberty continues to thrive in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and other parts of south India. This is largely due to social backwardness, poverty and illiteracy, according to a study by two doctors of the India Health Organization.

The report clearly indicates that the Devadasi system was the result of conspiracy between the feudal class and the priests (Brahmins), who their ideological and religious hold over the peasants and craftsmen, devised a practice acquired religious sanction. They noted in their study on - "Devadasis"- the link between religious culture and child prostitution.

The study revealed that girls from poor families sold after puberty at private auctions to a master who initially paid a sum of money to the families ranging from 500 to Rs.5000.

The study made during health camps organized by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the devadasi populated areas, revealed that the dedicated girls formed 15% of the total women involved in prostitution in the country, and as much as 70% to 80% of the prostitutes in the border districts of Karnataka and Maharashtra.