In an interfaith meet organised by UNICEF and Spandan, an NGO at Sanchi on Tuesday, leaders of various religions issued an appeal to promote sanitation and cleanliness. leaders of various sects participated and shared their views on sanitation.
Speaking at the meet Trevor Clark, UNICEF Chief Madhya Pradesh said that sanitation is right of each and every child and clean water and sanitation are vital prerequisites for reduction in child mortality and the fight against diseases. Diarrhea and Pneumonia, two major reasons for child death, have direct linkage to open defecation.
Professor Samdong Rimpoche, Chancellor, Sanchi University of Buddist and Indic Studies, said that all religions talk about cleanliness and sanitation and it should be promoted. There is a need to look at various scientific research, getting new evidences and promoting positive practices on newer challenges in the area of sanitation.
Syed Mushtaq Ali Nadvi, Shahr Kazi, Swami Hanut Sri (Manat Baba), Gyani Dilip Singh, Behan Reena ji, Father Shaji E, Kayanat Kazi, Anwar Shaqi, Brahmchari Amit Jain, Shekar Baba, Swami Balbir Das, Acharya Rajnish Pawar also expressed their views on the occasion.
Johnson D Wash, officer UNICEF made a technical presentation and spoke on the challenges of sanitation, possible reasons of open defecation and need to stop open defecation.
Anil Gulati, Communication Specialist, UNICEF, Madhya Pradesh spoke on the objectives of the meet and work with religious leaders and Global Interfaith WASH Alliance.
Senior Journalist Girish Updhayay compared the programme and spoke on the possible role of religious leaders. Anil Saumitra of Spandan, welcomed the participants and spoke on the need to engage religious leaders.