Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) and Breast Ironing: Body Alterations as Violation of Right to Female Body Autonomy

The paper attempts the explore the connection between two controversial body
alterations in terms of the control of female body by patriarchy and the subjugation
of females in the name of culture and tradition. The controversial body alterations
namely Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) and Breast Ironing lead
to many health complications including long term or short term health issues.
The parents who are unaware of the consequences let their daughters undergo the
procedures for social acceptance. Mostly FGM/C is done to protect the virginity and
to control sexual desires. Breast ironing is done to reduce the men getting sexually
attracted to girls/women. With reference to the abolition of foot binding, and the
need to create an understanding of their right for bodily integrity and the need to
protect women from any such subjugations.