AP becomes the first state to tackle trafficking by criminalizing sex buyers

Andhra Pradesh has become the first state in India to target people who purchase sex in brothels.

As a part of a crackdown on the sexual slavery of women and children, the state has issued a government order to penalize the sex buyers.

India has strict laws against human trafficking, sexual abuse and operating brothels with pimps, brothel managers, and traffickers often prosecuted.

However, those who buy sex from people forced to work in brothels, including children, face charges rarely.

Last week, a panel of legal experts and campaigners was appointed to study anti-trafficking laws which could be applied to buyers of sex. The government order issued has asked to make the recommendations within 60 days.