Rajasthan Government assures full compliance of NHRC recommendations on silicosis
The Chairperson of the NHRC had formally conveyed to the Chief Minister of Rajasthan the Commissions deep concern about the health hazards caused by silicosis, a fibrotic lung disorder caused by the inhalation and retention of, and pulmonary reaction to, crystalline silica. The workers of stone quarries and crushers, sand-blasting, foundries, ceramics industries, gem-cutting and polishing, slate/pencil construction, glass manufacturing and all mining industries are particularly prone to silicosis. Justice Balakrishnan had asked the Chief Minister to issue suitable directions to the concerned departments for effective implementation of NHRC recommendations, which included preventive, remedial, rehabilitative measures and compensation for workers who are affected, or likely to be affected by silicosis.
In reply, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has written that his government accords high priority to preventive, remedial and rehabilitation measures for such workers. His government had earmarked `25.60 crores for their medical treatment and other facilities. A committee had been constituted under the chairmanship of Principal Secretary, Mines to ensure effective measures to deal with the problem of silicosis. Mr. Gehlot wrote that his Government assured its full cooperation and support in implementing the NHRC's recommendations on silicosis.
In reply, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has written that his government accords high priority to preventive, remedial and rehabilitation measures for such workers. His government had earmarked `25.60 crores for their medical treatment and other facilities. A committee had been constituted under the chairmanship of Principal Secretary, Mines to ensure effective measures to deal with the problem of silicosis. Mr. Gehlot wrote that his Government assured its full cooperation and support in implementing the NHRC's recommendations on silicosis.