Human rights to water and sanitation in India: voices from the people and accountability of duty bearers

The recognition of Human rights to water and sanitation are widely understood to provide a basis for effective demand for services from communities, and greater accountability from duty bearers. This paper describes insights drawn from WASH projects in India that have used a human rights based approach. The projects suggest that communities show a broad understanding of the concept of human rights to water and sanitation as essential for a dignified and healthy life. Overall there is a wide appreciation of the components of the rights, the importance of access for all, and the concomitant responsibilities and accountabilities to realise the rights. While duty bearers generally also acknowledge their responsibilities, and there are mechanisms for accountability and participation in the national, district and local government institutions, in reality the accountability mechanisms are fragmented and dysfunctional. The civil society organizations can play a role in strengthening these, but must negotiate this role with care.