Question

what has been the step in Sulabh International approach to restore human dignity of scavengers

Answer 1

Scavengers, a class of people united in their suffocating misery, were traditionally ordained in Indian society to clean and carry human waste, even those whose excreta they carry on their heads hate scavengers! Reduced to the depths of degradation, as untouchables, and forced to lead a sub-human existence, they were the worst victims of a cruel social order.

It is a common sight to see scavengers, mostly women, moving with excreta on the head, stored in bamboo-baskets, or in leaking drums, with the muck trickling down over face and body. Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak strategy for liberation of Balmikis through the Sulabh movement consists of a mixed package of technology, rehabilitation, with alternative employment and social reform.

The Sulabh approach to restore human dignity to Balmikis has five distinct stages:

a.   Liberation;

b.   Rehabilitation;

c.   Vocational training;

d.   Proper education of next generation; and,

e.   Social elevation