Question : MANUAL SCAVENGING

(a) Whether manual scavenging is still a disgusting reality in most of the States despite the enforcement of Act banning it ;

(b) If so, the reaction of the Government thereto ;

(c) Whether the workers who clean open gutters, manholes and septic tanks are exposed to great risks are not covered by the Act ;

(d) If so, the reasons therefor ;

(e) The measures being taken by the Government for effective implementation of Act ;

(f)Whether there is any programme to demolish dry latrines across the States ; and

(g) If so, the details thereof ?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOUSING & URBAN POVERTY ALLEVIATION (KUMARI SELJA)

(a) : Water flush latrines are not available to the entire population in the country and dry latrines and manual scavenging still exists in some parts of the country.

(b) : Planning Commission has formulated a National Action Plan for total Eradication of Manual Scavenging.

(c)&(d) : The Employment of Manual Scavengers and Construction of Dry latrines

(Prohibition) Act, 1993 prohibits to engage or employ a person for manually carrying human excreta.

(e) : States have been requested to implement the Act effectively.

(f)&(g) : The Act, 1993 provides that the State Governments may by notification specify that no person shall construct or maintain a dry latrine.