Question

The Government of India passed the Disabilities Act in 1995. This law states that persons with disabilities have equal rights, and that the government should make possible their full participation in society. The government has to provide free education and integrate children with disabilities into mainstream schools. This law also states that all public places including buildings, schools, etc., should be accessible and provided with ramps. 

Look at the photograph and think about the boy who is being carried down the stairs. Do you think the above law is being implemented in his case? What needs to be done to make the building more accessible for him? How would his being carried down the stairs affect his dignity as well as his safety?

Answer 1

No, the Disabilities Act is not being followed here. This is also a violation of Article 15 because physically disabled persons should be able to access public places. Buildings must have proper ramps, guidelines and other accessibility measures. The way the boy is being carried down the stairs affects his dignity. Moreover, the method is unsafe. It affects his dignity because every time he has to depend on others for mobility. 

Carrying the wheel chair as shown in figure is dangerous. An imbalance can cause physical injury to the boy. This "charity based" approach has a negative impact on boy's mind and reduces his sense of independence. 

It is important such needs be addressed through 'rights-based' approach i.e. all persons believe that they have equal share of the public resources. The government should ensure that disabled people are able to access public resources with ease.