Open defecators to pay fine

Adopting a tough posture, the administration in Uttar Pradesh’s Kushinagar district has decided to book those who found defecating on and around roads.

According to district officials, the defecators would not only be prosecuted but a fine of Rs 500 would also be imposed on them.

Officials of the district panchayati raj have been given orders in this regard, they said.
A campaign will be launched in the district to create awareness among people about the ill-effects of open defecation as well as action to be taken against those found violating the directive, the officials said.

People are being informed through loudspeakers and other means about the decision, the officials said.

They said that open defecation, especially around roads, has become a big problem in the district, which occupies an important position on the tourist map of UP.
In fact, Kushinagar district in eastern UP is known for its cultural heritage.

Pilgrim town
It is considered one of the four holiest places for Buddhists as according to history, Lord Buddha had delivered his last sermon at Kushinagar.

People in other countries consider Kushinagar as an ‘international Buddhist pilgrimage centre’, and followers of Buddhism, especially from Asian countries, would want to visit this place at least once in their lifetime.

However, the problem of open defecation has started affecting tourism in the district.
“It has become difficult to even walk on the temple campus due to foul smell and filth,” an official said.

‘Strict implementation’
District officials said the decision will be implemented strictly.
Last year, a newly married Dalit girl from the district had run away from the house of her in-laws in adjoining Maharajganj district after she discovered she would have to defecate in the open as there was no toilet at her husband’s house.