'Mentally challenged persons sidelined'
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Ashem Babycha
Imphal, May 15 2015 :
Mentally challenged persons are given the voting rights when they attain the age of 18 but denied of several rights which normal persons are privileged to, alleged Ibechoubi Secretary of All Manipur Mentally Handicapped Persons Welfare Organisation.
She was speaking during a painting competition for mentally disabled person at BB Paul Mental Development Home Complex at Mongsangei Lai Leirak.
Ibechoubi further expressed that the disabled persons have the same right and they have lots of talents.
However the state government seems to have sidelined the disabled.
She demanded that BPL card should be given to family of every mentally challenged person.
Moreover the food security scheme should also cover the family of the mentally challenged as when their parents pass away the other family members have to look after the disabled she claimed.
Ibechoubi further said that at present there is no provision for scholarship schemes at the Social Welfare Department for the mentally challenged.
Even if there is no reservation of job for the mentally challenged, it would be best if some special reservation is kept for them in the form of scholarship.
The maintenance allowance initiated since 2009-10 with an annual allowance of Rs 300 should be converted into monthly basis and given regularly.
We take the negligence of the government towards mentally challenged as an offence and having given the right to vote they should also be considered for certain welfares.
If we look at public places like hospital or the polling booth the mentally challenged persons are not given their ramp and the same facility is sought in future as a part of their welfare.
Around 60 students took part in the painting competition organised to tap the talents of the mentally challenged person.