Bengaluru: The Karnataka government will soon form a panel to look into problems faced by sex workers, Women and Child Welfare Minister Umashree said on Monday.

“The government, in a day or two, will form a panel to study the plight of sex workers across Karnataka,” she told reporters here.

However, she declined to make any concrete statement on legalising prostitution in the state in the backdrop of some religious leaders and politicians, including former law minister MC Nanaiah favoring wider discussion on the matter.

“The question of legalising prostitution will only arise after the panel submits its report,” she said.

Umashree said the issue is sensitive and there have been differences of opinion among several eminent personalities.

“The issue of legalising prostitution is sensitive. There have been differences among several eminent people on the issue,” she said.

The minister said the modalities for setting up of the panel is in progress and she would finalise the names proposed.

The committee will look into the challenges and sufferings of sex workers and submit a report to the government as soon as possible, Umashree said.

The panel will offer solutions in terms of rehabilitation and legal aid to sex workers, she said.

Nanaiah, who is also chairman of an expert committee, had suggested wider discussion on legalising prostitution to prevent crimes against women, including rape.

Noted writers and religious leaders, including Nisar Ahmed and Mathe Mahadevi had urged legalising prostitution as has been done in many countries.

(Agencies)