In its October 2023 judgement (Dr. Balram Singh v. Union of India), the Supreme Court (SC) directed the Union and States to eradicate manual scavenging and hazardous cleaning in the country.

• However, it noted that such eradication has not happened anywhere, not even in one municipality, despite the launch of the NAMASTE Scheme. 

About Manual scavenging

• Definition: A person is engaged in cleaning, carrying, or handling in human excreta in an insanitary latrine or in an open drain or pit or on a railway track, etc.
• Current Status: As of 2021, India had 58,098 manual scavengers (75% women). Between 2018-22, 339 died cleaning sewers and septic tanks.
• Violates Constitutional rights:  Particularly rights under Article 17 (abolition of untouchability) and Article 21 (Right to life with dignity)
• SC Directions (Dr. Balram Singh v. Union of India): 
  • Increase sewer death compensation to ₹30 lakhs. 
  • Compensation for permanent disablement: ₹20 lakhs; other disablement to ₹10 lakhs. 
  • Provide scholarships and skill programs for victim rehabilitation.
• Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act 2013.
  • Prohibits Manual Scavenging, however, cleaning excreta with protective gear is not considered manual scavenging.
  •  Violation: of the act is punishable with imprisonment up to 2 years or a fine up to Rs. 1 Lakh or both.