Activists launch campaign to end manual

The Safai Karmachari Andolan (SKA) launched a campaign on Tuesday to end manual scavenging across India within one year. The group aims to stop the practice before the country's 80th Independence Day, with speakers noting it remains common despite being prohibited by law.

Former Supreme Court judges Madan Lokur and Sudhanshu Dhulia were among those who highlighted the ongoing crisis. Sanitation workers from multiple states gathered at the Press Club of India in Delhi to share their experiences. They stated they are forced into the work and then face severe discrimination because of it.

Workers detail discrimination and abuse

Many workers expressed deep concern for their children's futures. They alleged the government has done nothing to help them. Pawan Vaalmiki, an SKA member from Madhya Pradesh, said his mother worked as a manual scavenger. He noted that almost 80 years after independence, women are still forced into this work in several districts.

Others recounted personal stories of exclusion and humiliation. Anguri Valmi, from Chattarpur, described being physically assaulted due to her profession. "We are made to bear all this, and are also paid very little," she said. Valmi stated that some people pay only 100 or even 50 rupees for the work. She added that workers have nothing saved for their children and feel ashamed.

Legal prohibitions ignored

SKA convener Bezwada Wilson directly challenged government claims that manual scavenging has ended. He questioned how ministers could make such statements in Parliament. Wilson pointed out that district magistrates have the power to order surveys if they believe the practice is occurring. The group plans to send a letter to the government on Wednesday with evidence of its widespread prevalence.

Human rights activist Usha Ramanathan said SKA has gathered evidence from 46 districts across India's northern belt. This evidence contradicts official denials.

Former judge Madan Lokur invoked the Constitution at the event. He referenced Article 17, which states untouchability is "abolished and forbidden." Lokur emphasized this means the practice is not just finished but is not supposed to be practised again. Despite this clear mandate, he confirmed it continues.

The campaign launch served as a platform for workers to break their silence. They linked the practice directly to entrenched untouchability. Their testimonies formed a collective demand for immediate and effective enforcement of the law.