The following report outlines the legal and operational status of sex work in Hubli-Dharwad

In India, the act of a consenting adult engaging in sex work for money is not a criminal offence per se. However, the legal framework, primarily the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA), 1956 , criminalises almost all associated activities: Illegal Activities:

Engaging in sex work within 200 yards of public places (e.g., schools, hospitals, temples) is prohibited. Advertising:

Call girls are prohibited from publishing phone numbers or advertising their services to the public. 2. Supreme Court Ruling (May 2022) A landmark Supreme Court order in Budhadev Karmaskar v. State of West Bengal significantly altered the rights of sex workers: Supreme Court recognises sex work as a 'profession' 25 May 2022 —

Keeping or managing a brothel, pimping, soliciting in public places, and living off the earnings of a sex worker are punishable offences. Public Solicitation:

, Karnataka, based on current Indian laws and judicial rulings as of April 2026. 1. Legal Status of Prostitution in India