Strict Action Against Forced Manual Scavenging: CM Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur, March 2026: Vishnu Deo Sai has directed strict action against individuals who force people into manual scavenging. He emphasized that sewer cleaning work must be carried out only through municipal corporations or registered agencies, with full adherence to safety protocols to prevent any untoward incidents.

The Chief Minister issued these directions while chairing a meeting of the State Monitoring Committee at the Chhattisgarh Assembly premises. The meeting reviewed the effective implementation of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and Their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 under the Scheduled Caste Development Department.

Expressing deep condolences over the death of three workers during septic tank cleaning at a private hospital in the state, CM Sai directed officials to provide all possible assistance to the victims’ families. He also called for strict legal action against those responsible to prevent such incidents in the future.

During the meeting, Principal Secretary of the Tribal and Scheduled Caste Development Department, Sonmani Bora, informed that the Act includes provisions for punishment against those forcing manual scavenging, including imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of up to ₹50,000. He added that awareness campaigns are being conducted in urban areas to curb the practice.

It was noted that this was the first meeting of the reconstituted State Monitoring Committee. Officials informed that, in compliance with Supreme Court directives, surveys have been conducted across all districts, and district collectors have issued certificates declaring their areas free from manual scavenging.

The Chief Minister подчеркнул that manual scavenging is against human dignity and constitutional values. He stressed that every individual has the right to live with dignity and appreciated the coordinated efforts of various departments, including Panchayat and Rural Development, and Urban Administration, in eliminating the practice.

The meeting also reviewed the proceedings of the previous meeting held in 2018 and discussed the re-survey report on manual scavengers as per the Supreme Court’s order dated October 20, 2023, which was approved by the State Survey Committee.

The meeting was attended by Cabinet Minister Guru Khushwant Saheb, MLAs Punnulal Mohle and Domar Lal Korsewada, Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel, Director General of Police Arun Dev Gautam, Additional Chief Secretary Manoj Pingua, Principal Secretary Sonmani Bora, and other senior officials.