Government Approves Compensation for Over 1,200 Families of Deceased Sanitation Workers

New Delhi, August 24: In a significant move, the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK) has approved compensation for 1,223 families of sanitation workers who lost their lives while working in sewers and septic tanks. This decision comes as part of a statement released on Sunday, addressing a total of 1,377 reported cases across the country.

The NCSK receives over 1,200 complaints annually and collaborates with relevant government departments, local bodies, and other institutions to address these issues effectively.

On Sunday, the NCSK celebrated its 33rd Foundation Day at the Constitution Club of India in the national capital. The event saw participation from over 900 sanitation workers, along with representatives from central, state, and union territory governments, urban local bodies, public sector organizations, civil society groups, and other stakeholders dedicated to the welfare, dignity, and safety of sanitation workers.

Addressing the gathering, Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State for Law and Justice, emphasized that the Foundation Day was not just a celebration of the institution’s journey but also an opportunity to honor the contributions of millions of sanitation workers who keep the country’s cities, villages, institutions, and public spaces clean and safe every day.

He stressed the need to eliminate the dangerous practice of manual cleaning and advocated for increased use of machinery for cleaning sewers and septic tanks.

The minister asserted that sanitation workers should receive training, safety equipment, and social security support. He also highlighted the importance of ensuring accountability in cases of accidents or fatalities, with timely assistance, compensation, and rehabilitation provided to affected families.

As India progresses towards becoming a developed nation, Meghwal stated that the sanitation system must evolve to be modern, scientific, technology-based, and aligned with human dignity. No human life should be endangered by tasks that machines can safely perform.

He concluded by stating that the national goal should be clear: to eliminate hazardous manual entry, eradicate negligence in sewers and septic tanks, achieve full mechanization, and ensure a dignified and safe life for every sanitation worker.