The story of Seema...

Life never ceases to surprise or shock us. Every time we are sure of reasons and consequences, we are hit by something new.

Seema (name changed) was sent to us after she was caught is a sex trade racket. As our counselor sat to have a chat with this young girl, she never knew such a shocking revelation was waiting for her. Seema was a first year English honour student at one of the reputed city colleges. She lived with her widow mother in their own home at the northern part of the city. Her father’s pension and rent from their house got them enough money for a comfortable lifestyle.

Girls from such backgrounds do not end up in this trade. “ Why do you do it then?” the counsellor asked. “ More money”  came the reply. The counselor could not believe her ears. Her experience of 22 years seemed to fade away as she went on hearing her story. The teenager earned more than Rs. 30000 a day by doing this. And no she was not apologetic for doing it. For her, it was simply an easy way to earn more money.

With time, reasons have changed. Poverty is no longer the main reason for women joining the trade. Better lifestyle, more money and never ending needs are just some of the new reasons and consequences of today’s ambitious lifestyle.