Manual scavenging prohibited in East Jaintia Hills and Pynursla Sub-Division

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaSeptember 7, 2024

To uphold human dignity and public health, the practice of manual scavenging has been unequivocally banned in East Jaintia Hills and Pynursla Sub-Division.

The order was issued in pursuance of the order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in W.P. (Civil) No. 583 of 2003 and in accordance with “The Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013,” which abolished manual scavenging.

Deputy Commissioner Shivansh Awasthi has stated that, no person or local authority or any agency shall construct an insanitary latrine; or engage or employ, either directly or indirectly, a Manual Scavenger, and every person so engaged or employed shall stand discharged immediately from any obligation, express or implied, to do Manual Scavenging.

No person, local authority or any agency shall engage or employ, either directly or indirectly, any person for hazardous cleaning of a sewer or a septic tank.

Violating the Act can result in imprisonment for up to two years, a fine of up to Rs. 2 lakhs, or both for the first offense. Repeat offenders may face imprisonment for up to five years and fines of up to Rs. 5 lakhs, or both.

The public is urged to report any instances of manual scavenging to the nearest police station for legal action.

Meanwhile, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Pynursla Civil Sub-Division, EL Warjri also issued a press release stating the prohibition of manual scavenging, referring to Letter No. SMB/PW/214/2019-2020/01, dated 18.06.2019, from the Chief Executive Officer of Shillong Municipal Board. This statement reiterated that manual scavenging is banned in compliance with the Supreme Court order and the 2013 Act.

The public is reminded that constructing insanitary latrines and engaging in manual scavenging are illegal. All violators will face strict penalties as outlined in the Act. Citizens are encouraged to report any violations to ensure strict enforcement of the law.