The New Indian Express ·
Silicosis in Rajasthan — the policy and the gaps
Rajasthan, with its large mining and stone-processing industry, has millions of workers exposed to silica dust, which can cause silicosis, an incurable and irreversible lung disease. Workers involved in sandstone and granite mining, stone cutting, carving, grinding and drilling face particularly high risks because these activities generate fine silica dust.
In August 2024, the Supreme Court held that failure to prevent and treat silicosis violates the fundamental right to life with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution. It directed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to monitor compliance with dust-control measures in silicosis-prone industries and gave the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) a role in overseeing compensation. Rajasthan continues to face delays in certification, shortages of radiologists and gaps in enforcement of workplace safety measures.
1965: Rajasthan enacted the Rajasthan Workmen’s Compensation (Occupational Diseases) Rules, 1965.
