NCSk was first established as a statutory commission in 1994 by the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis Act, 1993.
- However, with lapsing of the act in 2004, the commission is acting as a Non-Statutory body under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment(MoSJE).
- Its tenure is extended from time to time through Government Resolutions.
Mandate of NCSK
- Recommend central government for programmes towards elimination of inequalities in status of Safai Karmacharis etc.
- Evaluate the schemes implemented for socio-economic rehabilitation of sanitation workers.
- Under Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, NCSk monitors the implementation; enquires into complaints related to contravention; advise the government for effective implementation; and take suo-motu notice for non-implementation of any provisions of the act.
- Others: Monitor the working conditions (health safety & wages); make reports to governments on any issue concerning the sanitation workers etc.
Issues faced by Sanitation workers:
- Hazardous working conditions which lead to skin & respiratory problems such as eczema, scaly dermatitis etc;
- Social stigma as many workers primarily hail from marginalized communities face systemic exclusion and lack of social security net.
Other Initiatives taken for welfare of sanitation workers
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