In this research paper, the researchers aim to construct, deconstruct and ultimately reconstruct the existing sanitation framework of India, with special emphasis on sanitation workers from urban slums and the working conditions in which the sanitation sector- public, private, informal operates. The entirety of this research paper is deliberately set in the social context of the coronavirus pandemic, with an eye to review the existing socio-economic norms and legislation, identify the vacuums- both institutional and non-institutional- in the prevailing sanitation paradigm and accordingly suggest modifications and corrections in the same to ensure a smooth, inclusive transition to the COVID-19-appropriate sanitation conventions that must be undertaken at all levels of national governance. The paper draws considerable attention to the nuances of manual scavenging. This research paper is structured such that after examining the formal relevant legislation, we develop the contextual layout- political, economic, social, technological, environmental, legal- of the working conditions of Indian sanitation workers. We then proceed to assessing the landscape of urban slum dwellings in similar parameters and consequently, aim to understand the complexities that the pandemic adds to the prevailing normative model. Using this fundamental information, this research paper seeks to make policy recommendations accordingly. The spirit of emancipation remains the driving force throughout.

Abhishri Swarup
St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi, India
Agrim Gupta
Project uP Research Team

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Swarup, A., & Gupta, A. (2020). Analysing the Working Conditions of Sanitation Workers with Special Reference to Urban Slum Dwellers in a Post COVID-19 Reality. International Journal of Policy Sciences and Law, 1(1), 332. https://ijpsl.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Working-Conditions-Sanitation-Workers_Abhishri-Agrim.pdf

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