MANUAL SCAVENGING
Manual scavenging refers to the practice of manually cleaning, carrying, and disposing of human excreta from dry latrines, sewers, and septic tanks. Despite being banned by law in India, this dehumanizing practice continues to exist due to various social, economic, and systemic issues. Addressing manual scavenging is crucial for several reasons:
1.Human Rights Violation: Manual scavenging is a gross violation of human rights, subjecting individuals to inhumane and degrading treatment. It perpetuates caste-based discrimination and social exclusion, primarily affecting Dalits and marginalized communities.
2.Public Health Concerns: The unsanitary conditions and lack of protective gear expose manual scavengers to severe health risks, including infections, respiratory diseases, and even death. This poses a significant public health challenge.
3.Social Justice and Equality: Eliminating manual scavenging is essential for achieving social justice and equality. It is a step towards dismantling caste-based hierarchies and empowering marginalized communities, allowing them to access dignified livelihoods.
4.Legal and Ethical Responsibility: The Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, criminalizes manual scavenging and mandates the rehabilitation of affected individuals. Addressing this issue is a legal and ethical obligation for society and the government.
5.Economic Development: Enabling manual scavengers to transition to safer and more sustainable occupations contributes to economic development. It enhances the overall productivity of the workforce and reduces the economic burden associated with health care and social welfare for those affected by this practice.