Topic: Population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies.
Q2. Despite the enactment of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and Their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, the practice continues unabated. Examine the reasons and suggest robust measures for its eradication. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question
The Supreme Court vowed to go to “any extent possible” to ensure that manual scavenging and hazardous manual cleaning of sewers and septic tanks are wiped out, saying the issue dealt with the question of human dignity.
Key demand of the question
Examine why manual scavenging continues despite the 2013 Act and propose robust, actionable solutions for its eradication.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Briefly introduce manual scavenging as a persistent issue, despite its prohibition under the 2013 Act, and highlight its implications on human dignity and equality.Body
- Persistence despite the 2013 Act: Highlight poor implementation, ineffective rehabilitation, and societal stigma.
- Examine the reasons: Discuss systemic failures such as administrative apathy, lack of mechanization, and socio-economic vulnerabilities.
- Suggest robust measures: Focus on mechanization, stricter enforcement, awareness campaigns, and holistic rehabilitation measures.
Conclusion
End with a forward-looking statement emphasizing the importance of technology, policy enforcement, and societal transformation to ensure dignity and equality for all citizens.
