Supreme Court Slams Delhi PWD With Penalty Over Manual Sewer Cleaning

On Thursday, the Supreme Court imposed a Rs 5 lakh fine on the Delhi government's Public Works Department (PWD) for employing manual sewer cleaners near its premises, despite clear prohibitions. The bench expressed disapproval of PWD's actions, indicating protective measures were ignored.

Justices Aravind Kumar and N V Anjaria emphasized the severity of this breach, particularly noting the involvement of a minor. The top court insisted the penalty be paid to the National Commission for Safai Karmacharis within four weeks. Future violations may result in FIRs against non-compliant officials.

The court underscored the necessity for adherence to its directives, criticizing the PWD's inadequate measures and failure to warn or blacklist contractors breaching safety protocols. The issue emerged amid public interest litigation against manual scavenging.