The National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru, and the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai have initiated a comprehensive study focusing on the Devadasis system. Although the belief is prevalent that this system has been eradicated from our society, it is still being practiced in certain parts of India. This study reveals a grim point-of-view towards the legislature and enforcement bodies’ approach to curb the practice, especially within oppressed communities in north Karnataka.
Understanding the Devadasi System
The Devadasi system is an ancient practice where young girls are dedicated to temples as offerings to pacify the gods. This system is primarily seen in southern India, specifically in the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Key Findings of the Study
Legal Framework: The report highlights that the State Rules for the Karnataka Devadasi (Prohibition of Dedication) Act, 1982 (KDPD Act) have not yet been drafted despite the Act being in existence for over three decades. It also emphasizes that dedicated children are not distinctly acknowledged as children in need of care and protection under the Juvenile Justice Act 2015 (JJ Act) considering the involvement of their families and relatives in sexual exploitation.
Offenses: The study points out that girls forced to become Devadasis are exploited sexually. In fact, it reveals that as much as 50% of the respondents claimed they were sexually abused as minors. Several reasons are contributing to the continuation of this practice, including superstitious beliefs, community pressure, disability, tradition, and lineage continuation.
Awareness about the Act: It is alarming to note that only 48% of the Devadasis and the residents were aware of this legislation.
Challenges Encountered in Banishing the Practice
The report outlines multiple challenges that stand as obstacles in curtailing this practice. These include society’s acceptance, ineffective awareness programs, lack of police action, non-cooperative victims, inadequate preventive measures, lack of coordination among departments, poor implementation of legislation, and health risks.
Some statistics relating to Devadasi system:
| Aspect | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Respondents dedicated as minors | 92 |
| Sexually abused as minors | 50 |
| Awareness of legislation banning dedication | 48 |
Recommendations for Eradicating the Devadasi System
To eradicate this practice, the study suggests several recommendations targeted at various societal and governance bodies.
Police: Dedication cases should be brought under the purview of the IPC and ITPA to acknowledge continuous sexual violence and offer rescue and rehabilitation services.
Department of Women and Child Development: The department must conduct a periodical survey to understand the prevalence and trend of the Devadasis System and provide rehabilitation to those affected.
Legal Services Authority: It should prioritize legal awareness programs on the Devadasi dedication Act and educate the community on multiple reporting mechanisms.
Department of Education: Enrolment drives should be conducted to ensure all children are in school and adults should be educated not to yield to superstitious beliefs.
Law Reforms: Several legislations need to be adequately amended to tackle the issue of Devadasis.
Community Vigilante: Young girls who have been dedicated as Devadasis should be identified, and their groups should resist dedication from taking place in their villages.