Abolishing A Sacred Bondage: Karnataka’s Devadasi Bill, 2025
- IJLLR Journal
- Aug 24
- 2 min read
Ambika Mishra, Haveli Institute of Legal Studies and Research
ABSTRACT
The Devadasi Bill 2025 represents a crucial legislative initiative aimed at abolishing the ancient and exploitative practice of devadasi, where young girls are dedicated to religious service and subsequently subjected to sexual exploitation. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the Bill's provisions, its historical context, and the sociocultural challenges it seeks to address. The practice of devadasi has persisted in parts of India, often justified under the guise of tradition and spirituality, despite its negative implications for women's rights and social equity. The Bill seeks to criminalize the act of dedicating minors as devadasis and offers legal remedies for those who have been exploited under this guise.
The article delves into the legislative journey leading up to the 2025 Bill, highlighting the work of activists, non-governmental organizations, and lawmakers who have tirelessly fought against this practice. It discusses the voice of survivors and the importance of their testimonies in shaping the Bill. Additionally, the article critiques existing laws and their ineffectiveness in curbing this practice, emphasizing the need for a robust legal framework that not only prohibits the dedication of devadasis but also provides support systems for rehabilitation and reintegration of former devadasis into society.
Furthermore, the article evaluates potential barriers to the implementation of the Bill, including sociocultural resistance and the inadequacy of existing support networks for affected individuals. The need for community awareness and education is highlighted as vital for transforming societal attitudes towards the practice. Lastly, the article anticipates the impact of the Devadasi Bill 2025 on the broader movement for women's rights in India, arguing that its successful enactment could pave the way for similar legislative measures aimed at eradicating other forms of gendered violence and discrimination. Through a multi-faceted approach, the article posits that the Bill has the potential to reclaim the dignity of countless women and galvanize societal change towards gender equality.
Keywords: Devadasi bill, Exploitation, Abolition, violation and Discrimination
