Gujrat High-count issues notices to the Government of Gujarat and other Departments in a Public Interest Petition filed by Manhole Workers Union.
Senior Counsel Girish Patel contended that hundreds of manhole workers engaged by corporations, municipalities and Panchayats for cleaning the drainage system are working under the most inhuman conditions. They are extremely poor, illiterate and marginalized, and are forced to do the most dehumanized work out of economic and social compulsions. While working inside the drainage, they are exposed to serious occupational hazards and diseases. Large number of deaths have occurred and many of them are permanently disabled.
Earlier, the Gujarat High Court delivered a landmark judgement on 15-2-2006 giving a number of directions to the local authorities in particular,introduction of automatic machines, abolition of contract system, regular medical check up and various safety measures on the site. Petitioners contended that even after two years of the judgement and several representations, the authorities have ignored the Judgement. A few deaths have also occurred even after the Judgement.
The Court issued notices to the various authorities and directed the Secretary, Social Justice and Empowerment Department, Gandhinagar to file Affidavit stating the actions taken for implementing the various directions of the High Court. The next date of hearing is 30th July, 2008.