Among the many issues that affect our day-to-day life, there is one that often goes unnoticed but continues to trouble our society—cleanliness in public spaces. The government has launched numerous schemes like the Swachh Bharat Mission, provided large and small dustbins, and organized regular cleanliness awareness programmes. These initiatives show a clear commitment to creating a cleaner and healthier India. And no doubt, people do use these facilities and participate in campaigns to some extent.
Yet, despite all these efforts, one uncomfortable truth remains: many of our public spaces, especially public bathrooms, remain far from clean. Step into the washrooms of hospitals, schools, colleges, government offices, or bus stands, and the reality becomes painfully evident. The same individuals who keep their home bathrooms spotless hesitate to press a single flush in a public toilet. This small act so simple at home, somehow becomes too much effort in a shared space.
The difference between our personal washrooms and public bathrooms reflects a sick mentality that no government scheme, no budget, and no awareness campaign alone can cure. Cleanliness is not just a matter of infrastructure; it is a matter of attitude and responsibility.
We must accept that the government can build toilets, install dustbins, and raise awareness. But it cannot stand behind every citizen to ensure they behave responsibly. The real change has to come from within. We need to introspect and ask ourselves: Are we treating public spaces with the same respect as our homes? Are we contributing to cleanliness or adding to the mess?
The lacuna in our public hygiene system is not just in policies, it is in our behaviour. A clean society cannot be created by spending money alone; it requires citizens who understand their role in maintaining shared spaces.
If we truly wish to see clean schools, clean hospitals, and clean streets, we must begin by changing our own habits. Cleanliness is not someone else’s duty, it starts with us, one responsible action at a time.
