Srinagar, Oct 21: The J&K Handicapped Association staged a protest at Press Enclave in Srinagar on Wednesday, urging the Jammu and Kashmir government to address the long-pending demands of persons with disabilities, including enhanced social security, employment opportunities, accessible public infrastructure and effective implementation of disability rights legislation.
The Association called for the immediate appointment of a Disability Commissioner, stating that the post had remained vacant for around one-and-a-half years, affecting the protection of the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
The protesters demanded full implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, across Jammu and Kashmir, a special recruitment drive for qualified candidates with disabilities, and an increase in the monthly pension from ₹1,250 to ₹3,000. It also sought implementation of reservation provisions in government and semi-government employment, including 4 per cent reservation in promotions and transfers for employees with disabilities, and the re-advertisement of backlog vacancies dating back to 1998.
Among its other demands, the Association sought greater representation of persons with disabilities in elected and government bodies, including the Assembly, municipalities and panchayats, as well as their inclusion in decision-making committees and district development meetings. It also called for improved access to educational institutions, better reservation opportunities in colleges and universities, accessible textbooks and digital platforms, and Braille schools in every district.
The Association further demanded accessible roads, bridges, parking areas, offices and banking facilities, along with separate service counters for persons with disabilities in government offices, semi-government institutions and banks. It called for low-interest loans, subsidies, employment opportunities under MGNREGA and other government schemes, exemption from job application fees, tax relief and at least 4 per cent reservation in shopping complexes and plots developed by government departments.
Seeking stronger social protection, the Association called for comprehensive health coverage, free medical treatment, a 50 per cent concession in electricity and water charges, and the establishment of advisory bodies to ensure that the concerns of persons with disabilities are reflected in policy decisions. It also demanded that government and semi-government websites and mobile applications be made accessible.
The association urged the government to move beyond assurances and take time-bound, concrete measures to address its demands. It said persons with disabilities must be ensured equal access to employment, education, healthcare and public services, along with meaningful representation in decision-making, so that their rights, dignity and independence are protected across Jammu and Kashmir.
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