HER BODY, HER BUSINESS

Why is the society afraid of women embracing body autonomy?

- Shilpi Kumari

Women's sexuality has always been an area of grave concern, a matter of suspicion and a subject of stringent regulation. Although our society is experiencing rapid changes and development on all counts, claiming to be ahead of time in some, a few issues are still not considered a topic of discussion despite being a crucial part of the world around us. One such matter is 'Female sexuality'. Not only men but also women themselves are not as aware or willing to discuss the topic. Before having a look at the various dimensions associated with female sexuality, let us talk about the practice, which perhaps is the most frightening form of restriction on female sexuality at present.

Female Sexuality, Chastity And Constraints

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the practice of cutting (partially or totally) the external female genitalia or causing any other injury to the genital organs of females, is mainly practised on girls between infancy and 15 years of age.

Although no health benefits of the practice have been found, the damages are plenty, including severe bleeding, infections, complications in childbirth and, in some cases, even death.

What is most horrific is that it is generally carried out by traditional circumcisers without proper safety, hygiene and, most importantly, without any medical expertise. The fact that young girls are completely unaware of what and why it is happening to them causes intense and lifelong emotional trauma.

FGM has been recognised globally asa violation of the human rights of women. Although it is most prevalent in north-eastern, western and eastern regions of Africa, and in some regions of Asia and the Middle East, it is found in India too. In India, it is mainly practised within the Dawoodi Bohra community and is known as khatna/khafz.

Female Pleasure Is Not A Sin