Maha to stop manual scavenging

This was informed by Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan in the Legislative Assembly.

Pandharpur is the only place in the state where conservancy workers are traditionally forced to carry human excreta on their heads to the pits.

Chavan gave the assurance after some members raised the issue of conservancy workers from Pandharpur undertaking a protest fast at the Azad Maidan here.

The issue gained limelight after it figured in the TV show 'Satyameva Jayate' hosted by Aamir Khan.

Leader of Opposition Eknath Khadse said the practice continues despite a ban. Jitendra Awhad (NCP) and Ganpatrao Deshmukh (PWP) alleged the government was ignoring the plight of Pandharpur workers.

A rehabilitation plan would be prepared for conservancy workers, who would also get houses, Chavan said.

The members said conservancy workers in Pandharpur are overworked where over 10 lakh devotees throng the place for Ashadhi Ekadashi pilgrimage during monsoon.