NHRC chief writes to PM on manual scavenging

By J. Venkatesan

NEW DELHI, AUG. 16. Concerned over the widespread prevalence of manual scavenging, the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, Mr. Justice J.S. Verma, has requested the Prime Minister, Mr. A.B. Vajpayee, and Chief Ministers of all States to take steps to eradicate this ``inhuman practice''.

In a letter addressed to the PM and the CMs just before the Independence Day, Mr. Justice Verma has drawn their attention to the inhuman and degrading practice which was unfortunately still prevalent in many parts of the country.

``It is a matter of national shame that despite over half-a- century of our Independence, the inhuman practice of manual scavenging continues,'' he said.

He further said that ``the Commission is constrained to believe that the requisite sensitivity and commitment is lacking'' to abolish this practice.

Mr. Justice Verma noted in his letter that the Commission since its inception had taken this issue at various forums and the former Chairpersons, Mr. Justice Ranganath Misra and Mr. Justice M.N. Venkatachaliah, had written to the CMs of all the States on earlier occasions but the ``Commission regrets to say that the practice is still widespread''.

He added ``as a significant step towards its eradication, as well as an important significant symbolic gesture, it may be appropriate that everyone under your (PM's) leadership, were to take action to ensure that by October 2, 2002 the scourge of manual scavenging is eradicated''.

The Chairperson had suggested to both the Central and State Governments that various measures were needed to be taken such as adoption and strict implementation of the Employment of Manual Scavengers and Constructions of Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act, 1993 by States and replacement of dry latrines by pour flush latrines.

``It is a matter of regret that the response has been both uneven and inadequate.''

In his letter to the CMs calling for their personal intervention, Mr. Justice Verma has said: ``It appears to be the result of lack of sensitivity and the needed commitment to the cause.

While I appreciate that translation of intend into administrative action may take time, it can hardly be disputed that half-a- century is a long enough period to achieve this result, so important for assuring the dignity of the individual, promised by the Constitution.''

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