Position of Persons with Disability in India: A Critical Analysis | Original Article

ABSTRACT:

Indian Constitution has declared India as a welfare state. As a welfare State India is under obligation to take effective steps for the overall wellbeing of and development of each section of the society. However disabled persons are one of the most neglected sections of the society. Certain basic facilities like accessibility to the public places, offices, educational institutions and sufficient number of trained teachers, tools required for their education and training are not available to them. Although, Indian Constitution provides right to equality, but practically, this right is denied to them in many respects. If they will not get proper opportunity and means to develop their skills, thieir social and economic position will be adversely affected. India has signed various Conventions for the protection of rights of persons with disability. Various Human right Conventions also make it obligatory on the States to take effective steps to protect human rights of every section of the society. In order to fulfill the obligations under these Conventions, certain legislations have been passed by the Indian parliament. These legislations provide certain rights and concessions to the persons with disability. However the need of the hour is to understand the needs and problems of persons with disability from a new perspective and to take effective steps in that direction. The laws should be amended to the new challenges and requirements of the persons with disability.