Image used for representational purposes
New Delhi, Nov 16 – Disability rights groups have called on political parties to prioritize and address issues of the disabled community in the upcoming Assembly elections, emphasizing the need for equal treatment. The appeal was made during a national-level webinar on “Disabled People in Politics” organized by the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) in collaboration with state-level disability groups.
Consultations were held in the five poll-bound states – Mizoram, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan – to raise awareness among political parties about the importance of including people with disabilities in mainstream political and policy discussions. Some demands of the groups have already found a place in the manifestos of two national political parties.
Arman Ali, Executive Director of NCPEDP, highlighted the need for a shift in mindset, emphasizing that the disability sector should be seen as an investment. He welcomed the PM-PVTG Development Mission and called for a similar model of support for the disability sector.
Addressing political parties, Ali emphasized, “Everyone must recognize the power of the disabled vote. Each vote holds the potential to change the destiny of the country.”
Ahead of the elections, disabled groups have presented various demands for political parties to consider, including the introduction and hike in pension, the establishment of a disabled development commission, enhanced provisions for healthcare and accessibility, 5 percent reservation for disabled women within the proposed 33 percent women’s reservation in national elections, completion of UDID card issuance within a year, and ensuring every Person with Disability (PwD) possesses one.
Ali highlighted the importance of moving beyond disability-specific concerns, stating, “It’s high time we move beyond disability-specific concerns. Employment, accessibility, and education are non-negotiable, but we must also engage with mainstream issues. Only by becoming a unified voice can we hope to be truly heard.”
