An examination of the present state of knowledge, discussion and responses to sex trafficking, especially in India, reveals two polarised stands: that of neo-abolitionists for whom prostitution equals trafficking and should be eliminated; and that of neo-regulationists and other groups for whom trafficking is forced prostitution, while sex work is a legitimate and willing form of labour that should be decriminalised or legalised. Without taking sides, this review of the literature describes the various arguments that will help contribute to a better understanding of the issue and inform the possibility of action.