Feminine health and sexuality issues in India^*

Recently, the Sulekha CH posters were hotly debating a number of incestuous relations in India involving two brother-sister pairs. In one of the cases, the girl was allegedly murdered by her family in spite of her pleas to the local and police authorities.

Although these incidents might be seen mainly in terms of sexual exploitation of young women, these also reflect the problem of general neglect of women and their rights in India and the Third World. Women simply do not have the means or a support system to assist and educate them regarding their developmental, physical (sexual and health) and emotional needs.

A girl may grow up in a family having her needs of food and clothing met, yet she may not receive proper guidance, training and protection in emotional and health matters. Thus a young female simply may not know what is acceptable or unacceptable with respect to sexuality and sexual behavior (her own and that of others), and how and where to address any transgressions related to it? Although the education, even for girls, is now a priority in the nation, it still lacks in quality and perspective. It basically does not train girls / women adequately on personal matters. Thus it is necessary to revise the curricula in schools and have some courses for girls (even in remote rural schools) on feminine health, hygiene and sexuality etc. This type of sex education to girls / women early will be very useful during their formative years and will improve their family life later.