Background of the Act
The Employment of Manual Scavengers and Construction of Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act was enacted in response to the persistent issue of manual scavenging in India. Manual scavenging involves the hazardous task of cleaning excreta from dry latrines and open spaces, often leading to severe health risks and social discrimination against those involved.
Legislative Purpose
- The primary objective of the Act is to eliminate manual scavenging practices.
- It prohibits the employment of individuals to clean human excreta manually.
- The Act aims to promote the construction of sanitary latrines and improve public health.
Year of Enactment
- The Act was passed in the year 1993, making it a significant legislative measure against the archaic practice of manual scavenging.
- The law reflects the government's commitment to social justice and the dignity of labor.
Key Provisions
- The Act prohibits the construction of dry latrines and mandates the conversion of existing ones into sanitary toilets.
- It provides for the rehabilitation of manual scavengers and ensures their social and economic upliftment.
- Offenders who violate the provisions of the Act can face legal action, including fines and imprisonment.
Significance
- This legislation marked a crucial step in addressing the caste-based discrimination associated with manual scavenging.
- It underscores the need for inclusive policies that protect the rights of marginalized communities.
In conclusion, the Employment of Manual Scavengers and Construction of Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act of 1993 is a landmark law aimed at eradicating a deeply entrenched social issue while promoting human dignity and public health.

The government passed the Employment of Manual Scavengers and Construction of Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act in the year 1993.
Explanation:
The Employment of Manual Scavengers and Construction of Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act was enacted by the Indian government to prohibit manual scavenging and the construction of dry latrines. Here is a detailed explanation:
- Year of enactment: 1993
- The act aimed to eliminate the practice of manual scavenging, which involves the manual cleaning of human excreta from dry latrines and sewers.
- It also focused on the eradication of dry latrines, which are non-flush toilets that require manual cleaning and disposal of waste.
- The act made the employment of manual scavengers and the construction of dry latrines illegal.
- It recognized manual scavenging as a degrading practice and a violation of human rights.
- The act provided for the rehabilitation of manual scavengers and the conversion of dry latrines into sanitary latrines.
- It also mandated the provision of protective gear and safety measures for workers involved in sanitation work.
- The act intended to promote dignity, equality, and social justice by eliminating manual scavenging and ensuring proper sanitation facilities for all.
Overall, the Employment of Manual Scavengers and Construction of Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act was a significant step towards eradicating manual scavenging and promoting sanitation and human rights in India.