Our hypocritical attitude towards sex

The  views  expressed by Dr Stephen Vattappara in the article ‘Open adult centres to prevent sex crimes’ (NIE, Aug 15) are refreshingly candid.  Generally our media shies away from anything that has got to do with sex and drink and especially if it has any suggestions to improve the situation. Thus the media, which cries itself hoarse on the freedom of the Press, censors the freedom of the readers by not publishing letters and articles which it considers sensitive or not desirable from the viewpoint of society  as per its perception.  An open debate as expected in a democracy is thus avoided. It is perfectly true that sex plays an important part in the  case of all living organisms.  It is the  law of nature. The only way to control it is sublimation i.e.,diverting it to something else as in the case of saints or highly enlightened people.  But this is not possible for the people at large. Masturbation is practised by most people though only 50 percent admit it. Others lie, as published in sex surveys.    Anyway, it is desirable a legal outlet is given to those who want to have it. As Dr Vattappara says, for want of such outlets, people tend to commit crimes mentioned by him to have sexual gratification. This is not justifying the crimes but only offering a rational analysis. In Mumbai where there is a vast migrant male labour population, the government has kept areas like Kamathipura as red light districts for this purpose. That is why Mumbai is much safer for our women than other cities.    But our society is highly hypocritical. There is a section of purists and moralists who have got media and political backing.  Anything can go behind closed doors; but nothing in the open - no discussions, you are spoiling   society!    For want of such access, gay sex has also come into play. Thus in clear terms, if prostitution is legalised most of the ills plaguing society mentioned by you can be eliminated. We are living in a changing world and one that is changing fast.  It has been legalised in Amsterdam, certain parts of Australia and the US. The commercial sex workers get better wages, living conditions, safety from disease etc. They have the choice of refusing to service a client. The business is taxable. But I am afraid the idea is ahead of the times. But unless someone takes the initiative as Dr Vattappara  has boldly done, the situation will not improve.