People with disabilities, groups and organisations of disabled persons from the rural parts of India came together in New Delhi to bring their demands and issues to the forefront on the 18th and 19th of September 2009. The two–day National Convention of State Viklang Manchas, organized by the Human Rights Law Network (HRLN), dealt with various issues of disability such as their right to vote, right to food, right to employment, right education, etc. The inaugural session was addressed by Ms. Poonam Natarajan, Chairperson of the National Trust; General Ian Cardozo, Chairperson of the RCI; and Deputy Chief Commissioner of Disability, Shri. T.D. Dhariyal.
Recently, there have been several debates surrounding the non–inclusion of persons with disabilities in different fields, and the denial of rights to them. The voices of persons with disabilities have been becoming more audible in demanding their rights, and in inspiring a movement towards a society that is inclusive and just for all.
Active sharing by the Viklang Manchas threw light on their various achievements is advocating their rights, as well as the obstacles they faced in this process. Suggestions were made for eliminating discrimination through greater sensitization towards disability from all sections of society. Issues of accessibility, certification and employment were evident in most of the discussions.
The Convention also included inspiring and interactive talks by eminent speakers such as Prof. Anil Sadgopal, Prof. Anita Ghai and Senior Advocate Colin Gonsalves. On the last day, around 200 disabled activists from 17 states led a demonstration outside Jantar Mantar. Seven delegates were sent to the Prime Minister's Office, where his secretary received the memorandum, and assured the activists that an initiative for action will be taken and communicated on Tuesday.
The memorandum, dealt with various issues, such as; consulting disabled persons in amending all laws and policies in accordance with the UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities; inclusion of all disabled children in the Right to Education Bill which was passed recently by the parliament; ensuring that the mandated 3% quota for employment of disabled persons is filled up; making currency notes accessible to persons with visual disabilities, and making all public buildings accessible to disabled persons; simplifying the process of obtaining disability certification; and reservation in special compartments for disabled persons.
Reference : http://www.disabilityindia.com/html/newssep09.html
Type : Archive
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