Caste-Based Differences in Rights Awareness, Vulnerability and Access to Support Services among Female Sex Workers

The study examines caste-based differences in awareness of rights, vulnerability and access to support services among 375 female sex workers in Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh. Data were collected through personal interviews and analysed using descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA. The findings revealed significant caste-based differences in all four areas (p < 0.001). Forward Caste respondents had higher awareness of rights, access to support services and social work intervention, while Scheduled Tribe respondents recorded lower scores in these areas. Scheduled Caste respondents reported the highest level of vulnerability. These differences may be related to variations in education, economic conditions, social discrimination and access to information. The study recommends awareness programmes, better healthcare and legal support, livelihood opportunities and inclusive social work interventions to reduce vulnerability and improve access to services.