SP warns against revival of Jogini system

Rayadurgam (Anantapur): Superintendent of Police B S Yesubabu has cautioned people against reviving the age-old practice of Jogini temple prostitution, which was banned by law.

Speaking at an awareness meeting in this regard organised by the police department at Rayadurgam town here on Sunday, Yesubabu said that the age-old practice should not be revived and if problems persist, they should be brought to the notice of the police.

Stern action will be taken against people who try to revive it, he cautioned. He said India is a multi-cultural country where women are respected. Women are now contributing to social development on par with men, the SP pointed out.

The Jogini practice is raising its ugly head in some parts of the rural areas and exploiting women in the form of traditions and superstitions. He pointed out that some instances have come to the notice of police and the revival of the practice in subtle forms will not be tolerated, the SP said. Police should be alerted by simply calling 100.

Local MLA Kapu Ramachandra Reddy also spoke against revival of the age-old practice. He called for extensive awareness in this regard and lodging complaint with the police if there are any instances of pressure being exerted on women.

Additional SP K Choudeshwari, ICDS PD Chinmayadevi, Child welfare Committee chairman N Rajeshwari, Kalyandurgam DSP Venkataramana and other police officials were present.