Retired Elderly Sex Workers of West Bengal: Socio-Economic Struggles and Support by INSIGHT

West Bengal: In the narrow lanes of both metropolitan cities and small towns across West Bengal, many women still live today who have spent most of their lives in sex work. With advancing age, these women are not only deprived of a steady income but are also struggling with social exclusion, health issues, and identity-related challenges. They often lack both family support and adequate government assistance.

The biggest challenge for these elderly women is financial insecurity. Most of them have no savings, no pension, and no stable source of livelihood. Due to the absence of basic documents such as identity cards, bank accounts, or ration cards, they are often excluded from various government welfare schemes. With age, health problems like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and mental stress become common, yet accessing proper medical care remains extremely difficult for them.

Social stigma further worsens their situation. Isolated from society, these women face loneliness and psychological distress. In many cases, they also experience discrimination at healthcare centers and government offices, which discourages them from seeking help.

Amid these challenges, the Indian Socio Income and Grievance Helping Trust (INSIGHT) has taken a humanitarian step to support these elderly women. During a recently organized assistance program, INSIGHT distributed sarees to 30 elderly women and also provided them with immediate financial aid. The aim of this initiative was not just to offer clothing or money, but to restore a sense of dignity and belonging in their lives.

Representatives from INSIGHT stated that the organization is working to help these women reconnect with mainstream society—by assisting them in obtaining essential documents, linking them to government schemes, and ensuring access to healthcare and counseling services.

Social workers and NGOs believe that if the government, civil society, and local institutions collaborate effectively, there can be real improvement in the quality of life for these women. Initiatives such as proper documentation, special pension schemes, health insurance, and community rehabilitation centers can provide them with a dignified life.

In the words of one elderly woman:
“We only need respect. Food, treatment, and companionship — that’s all we ask for.”

These words reflect a harsh truth: this neglected section of society also deserves dignity and security. INSIGHT’s initiative is a small but meaningful step that shows how the right efforts can bring hope into many lives.