Supreme Court's Order on Manual Scavenging

The Supreme Court of India issued a directive to completely halt manual scavenging and hazardous manual cleaning of sewers and septic tanks in major metropolitan cities.

Key Details

• The order applies to top metros including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
• The Centre's report mentioned that 465 out of 775 districts reported no manual scavenging.

Concerns Raised

• Amicus curiae K. Parameshar highlighted potential inaccuracies in state-reported data, citing the absence of monitoring committees in some districts.

Historical Context

• The court referenced its October 20, 2023 judgment, urging measures to eradicate such practices.
• The court emphasized the ongoing inhuman nature of these occupations, leading to fatalities from asphyxia.
• Remarks were made about the illusion of fraternity, equality, and dignity if such practices persist.

Next Steps Ordered

• State officials in the six metros must file affidavits by February 13 detailing cessation measures.
• The Bench expressed a strong commitment to ensure compliance with the October 2023 judgment.