The Indian Railways remains one of the biggest employers of manual scavengers in the country. Hence, efforts to bring an end to this inhumane practice should start from the government (“Silent and suffering,” Oct.12). The section of people employed includes those from the oppressed communities as well as old people. The Swachh Bharat Mission has clearly failed in this regard. Independent surveys should be conducted more often to get a more accurate idea of this menace. Social audits can also help in better implementation of government measures.
Nidhi Chaudhary,
Panipat
