(a) whether the latest census data shows that manual scavenging is still
prevalent in the country;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor and the States which have not been able
to abolish the practice of manual scavenging;
(c) whether the Government is considering to bring a new legislation to
abolish the practice of manual scavenging; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and the time by which it is likely to be introduced?
MINISTER FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT (SHRI MUKUL WASNIK)
(a) to (d) A statement is laid on the Table of the House.
Statement in reply to parts (a) to (d) of the Lok Sabha Starred Question No.352 for
30.4.12 by Shri B.B. Patil and Shri Arjun Meghwal regarding `Eradication of Manual Scavenging`.
(a) & (b) Houselisting and Housing Census, 2011 data released by the Registrar
General of India in March, 2012, has inter alia, provided number of hoseholds by type
of latrine facility, including latrines from which night soil is manually removed.
According to this data, such latrines existed in all States/UTs except in the States of
Goa & Sikkim, and the UTs of Chandigarh and Lakshadweep.
Existence of manually serviced latrines in the remaining States/UTs points to
the fact that the practice of manual scavenging is yet to be eliminated there.
(c) & (d) Government is preparing a new bill for, inter alia, eliminating manual
scavenging and insanitary latrines, and rehabilitation of manual scavengers in alternative
occupations so that they are able to lead a life of dignity. The Bill would be introduced
in Parliament as early as possible.