Source: nationaldastak  | Image Source:openshutterstudio |Photographer: Sagar Kaul

The issue of manual scavenging was raised in the Rajya Sabha during Question hour.  BJP Rajya Sabha MP Tarun Vijay who spoke on the dire conditions & cleanliness of the workers also elucidated on the lack of any safeguards for health nor adequate compensation is given for the health issues they face due to the profession. He also called for an immediate end to manual scavenging.

What is the status of scavengers?

According to a report tabled in the Rajya Sabha, the numbers are quite distressing.  The report estimated that about 22 327 lose their lives a year due to manual scavenging based on estimates of number of deaths in urban areas.  The families of those who lost their lives have not been compensated for their irreplace lose of their bread winner. The Supreme Court had directed authorities to pay a sum of 10 lakhs however what the families have received has been way too less at about 60 thousand.

What was the Supreme Court decision?

The Court in its 2014 decision had made it very clear about the minimum wage that is to be paid (Rs. 20,000) , compensation and ensuring the profession should not be passed to a particular caste alone esspecially dalits.

The Logical Indian vehemently condemns the lack of apathy of the administration and the media in bringing this shameful practice to end. We appeal to the government to bring ensure adequate compensation reaches the damily of the deceased.