Pawan Reley Fights for Manual Scavengers and Sewer Cleaner Rights

Pawan Reley, a dedicated Advocate on Record at the Supreme Court of India, has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights and welfare of manual scavengers and sewer cleaners for the past nine years. His unwavering commitment to their cause has brought critical issues to the forefront of national attention. 

According to the Government of India, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, two surveys conducted in 2013 and 2018 identified over 58,000 manual scavengers in the country. While no deaths have been reported due to manual scavenging specifically, there have been tragic incidents leading to the loss of 188 lives during hazardous sewer and septic tank cleaning operations in the past three years. Shockingly, the Ministry reported 330 deaths from sewer and septic tank cleaning between 2018 and 2022—a stark reminder of the dangers faced by these essential workers.

Pawan Reley has been a vocal advocate for the distinct rights of sewer cleaners, highlighting the disparity in rehabilitation under the Prohibition of Manual Scavengers Act, of 2013. While manual scavengers are entitled to rehabilitation, sewer cleaners are not afforded the same benefits under the Act. Sewer cleaners are only compensated with Rs. 30 lakh in case of their demise during cleaning operations, a sum that Pawan Reley believes falls short of recognising their sacrifice. He has been pushing for an increase in compensation to Rs. 70 lakh, underscoring the urgent need for equitable treatment of all sanitation workers.

Taking his advocacy further, Pawan Reley leads a legal challenge filed by one Sewer Cleaner namely Kallu against the constitutional validity of the MS Act, 2013, arguing that it discriminates against sewer cleaners and fails to address the plight of daily wage manual scavengers. His efforts have not been in vain, as he has successfully represented over 100 marginalised families in their quest for justice and fair compensation.

Hailing from the humble district of Panna, MP, Pawan Reley draws inspiration from his father, a government teacher, and personal experiences witnessing caste discrimination in small communities. His overarching goal is to eliminate caste-based discrimination in India, driving his relentless pursuit of social justice for the marginalised.

Recognised for his impactful work, Pawan Reley has been honoured with prestigious awards including the Atal Samman, 2023, Most Admired Global Indian, 2023, and Udbhav Samman, 2023, celebrating his dedication and unwavering advocacy for the underprivileged without any familial or political lineage. He stands as a beacon of change and compassion in the legal arena, spearheading efforts to uplift and empower the overlooked segments of society.

Advocates like Pawan Reley play a crucial role in our society by serving as voices for the marginalised and underserved. Their dedication to championing causes that may not receive adequate attention is essential for driving systemic change and ensuring that all members of society are treated with dignity and fairness. Elevating the names of advocates like Pawan Reley helps bring awareness to pressing social issues, encourages dialogue on necessary reforms, and inspires others to join in the fight for a more just and equitable world. By shining a spotlight on their work and commitment to social justice, we not only acknowledge their efforts but also motivate others to take action and stand up for what is right.

For more details about Advocate Pawan Reley, visit his website (pawanreley.com) or also follow him on Instagram (@pawan_reley).