Context:

On January 30, 2025, the Supreme Court directed the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of six major cities—Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad—to file affidavits detailing how and when manual scavenging would be eradicated. This directive aims to enforce a ban on the practice in these cities.

About manual scavenging:

Manual scavenging refers to the practice of manually cleaning, carrying, or disposing of human excreta from dry latrines, drains, and other sanitation systems.

·        Despite being banned under the Employment of Manual Scavengers and Prohibition Act, 1993, the practice persists due to insufficient sewage systems and lack of alternative livelihoods for affected communities.

·        As of January 29, 2025, 456 out of 775 districts in India have reportedly eliminated manual scavenging.

·        However, the issue remains prevalent in various parts of the country, primarily due to inadequate sanitation infrastructure, which forces workers into this degrading and hazardous occupation.

Social Impacts

Manual scavenging exposes workers to severe health risks from harmful pathogens and gases.

·        It is also closely tied to caste discrimination, with many of those engaged in this work belonging to the Dalit community.

·        The practice violates basic human rights and dignity, perpetuating social inequities.

Legal Framework and Reforms Needed:

·        The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights like equality (Article 14), abolition of untouchability (Article 17), and the right to life (Article 21).

·        The Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavenger Act, 2013, bans manual scavenging and mandates rehabilitation.

·        Additionally, the NAMASTE scheme promotes mechanized sanitation and the rehabilitation of manual scavengers. Technological advancements, law enforcement, and infrastructure upgrades are crucial to fully eliminating the practice.