Supreme Court Demands Immediate End to Manual Scavenging
The Supreme Court of India has issued a strong directive for the immediate elimination of manual scavenging, particularly in urban and metropolitan areas. The court emphasized the need to replace hazardous manual cleaning with mechanized methods to safeguard the dignity and safety of sanitation workers.
“The continued practice of manual scavenging is unacceptable and must end immediately.”
This ruling comes amid growing concerns over worker safety, with reports indicating that sewer and septic tank-related fatalities continue despite previous legal prohibitions. The court criticized authorities for their failure to fully implement the ban and insisted on strict enforcement to ensure no worker is exposed to life-threatening conditions.
Focus on Mechanized Cleaning
The Supreme Court underscored that the use of technology-driven cleaning methods should be mandatory, eliminating human involvement in hazardous conditions. It instructed municipal corporations and urban bodies to expedite the adoption of mechanized cleaning techniques to prevent further loss of lives.
The bench also called for accountability among state and central authorities, directing them to submit detailed reports on their efforts to eradicate manual scavenging and ensure compliance with previous directives.
Legal Framework and Implementation Challenges
Although India has laws prohibiting manual scavenging, including the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, enforcement remains weak, and cases of non-compliance persist. The Supreme Court reiterated that government agencies must be held responsible for any lapses in implementation.
The ruling also stressed the importance of rehabilitation measures for affected workers, ensuring they are provided with alternative employment opportunities, skill development programs, and financial support.
With this latest directive, the Supreme Court has reaffirmed its commitment to ending manual scavenging, urging authorities to act swiftly and effectively to protect the rights and lives of sanitation workers.
