India's dark secret: 'Dhadicha' practice that allows men to sell, purchase women

In India, where women's protection and rights are already under scrutiny after the recent wave of rape incidents, an alarming practice has come to light.

The 'Dhadicha' tradition, which has been practiced in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh for years, allows men to sell and purchase women like commodities in a village market.

People from far and wide flock to this market to hire women, according to Indian media outlet NEWS 18.

What is the procedure for renting women in this market? 

The rental period is determined by a contract between the parties, where men visiting the market fix a price after selecting a woman and take her with them after paying the agreed amount.

But what drives people to sell their women?

According to the Indian publication, poverty-stricken families are the primary sellers, with women being sold for various purposes beyond just physical relationships.

Some men buy women to serve elders in their homes, while others 'rent' them as wives. However, the women have a right to reject any deal.

The prices for these women vary, starting from INR15,000 to a few lacs.

Indian media said virgin women command a higher price than married women, with men able to rent them for a year or a few months.

But what lies behind this inhumane practice? Is it purely economic desperation, or is there a deeper societal issue at play? How can a tradition like 'Dhadicha' exist in a so-called secular and modern India, and what does it reveal about the country's attitude towards women's rights? 

As this dark secret comes to light, questions arise about the protection and empowerment of women in India.