Section 3. Prohibition of employment of manual scavengers, etc.

(1) Subject to sub-section (2) and the other provisions of this Act, with effect from such date and in such area as the State Government may, by notification, specify in this behalf, no person shall-- (a) engage in or employ for or permit to be engaged in or employed for any other person for manually carrying human excreta; or (b) construct or maintain a dry latrine. (2) The State Government shall not issue a notification under sub-section (1) unless-- (i) it has, by notification, given not less than ninety days notice of its intention to do so; (ii) adequate facilities for the use of water-seal latrines in that area exist; and (iii) it is necessary or expedient to do so for the protection and improvement of the environment or public health in that area.