(1) Notwithstanding any custom, usage or law to the contrary whether before or after the commencement of this Act, dedication of a woman as Devdasi is prohibited and is hereby declared unlawful and to be of no effect. (2) Taking part in or abetting the performance of any such act or ceremony of dedication or any attempt or preparation for dedication of a woman as Devdasi or propagation of the practice of Devdasi is also hereby prohibited and declared unlawful.
<span style="margin-left:15px;"></span>(<i>1</i>) Notwithstanding any custom, usage or law to the contrary whether before or after the commencement of this Act, dedication of a woman as <i>Devdasi</i> is prohibited and is hereby declared unlawful and to be of no effect. <br> <span style="margin-left:15px;"></span>(<i>2</i>) Taking part in or abetting the performance of any such act or ceremony of dedication or any attempt or preparation for dedication of a woman as <i>Devdasi</i> or propagation of the practice of <i>Devdasi</i> is also hereby prohibited and declared unlawful. <br>