MASLSA observes International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 05 2025: The Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA) observed the International Day of Persons with Disabilities at the Deaf and Mute School, Takyelpat today.

As per a release issued by MASLSA, the event was graced by dignitaries, including Alek Muivah, Member Secretary, MASLSA; S Mangaleibi Devi, Additional Member Secretary, MASLSA; Fakhrul Islam Choudhury, Deputy Member Secretary, MASLSA; and N Kalpana Devi, Principal, Deaf & Mute School, Takyelpat.

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation of students & teachers of Deaf & Mute School, and staff of MASLSA .

Delivering the welcome address, Alek Muivah highlighted the important functions of MASLSA which includes providing free legal aid, spreading legal awareness as well as their rights & entitlements to the poor & marginalised sections of the society, including persons with disabilities.

He also mentioned that the day serves as an important reminder to uphold the human rights, dignity, and legal protection of persons with disabilities.

Under the NALSA Scheme on Legal Services to the Mentally Ill and Mentally Disabled Persons (2025), MASLSA remains committed to safeguarding individuals against exploitation and abuse, ensuring proper treatment, preventing illegal confinement in line with Article 21, and strengthening coordination with Judicial Magistrates and experts, he added.

He emphasised the need to move away from perceptions of disability rooted in pity or stigma and to instead recognise disability as a natural part of human diversity, a source of strength, unique perspective and innovative solutions.

Muivah expressed deep respect for persons with disabilities, their families, and caregivers, acknowledging their resilience and the inspiration they provide.

He reiterated that the role of MASLSA and the District Legal Services Authorities is not to find fault with systems but to facilitate and strengthen institutions in delivering justice and support to all.

N Kalpana Devi expressed her gratitude to the MASLSA for remembering the students and organising the programme.

She drew attention to the challenges faced by the school, including shortage of teachers and limited availability of resources.

Despite these constraints, she noted that the students have shown significant improvement in both learning and social behaviour.

She also expressed hope that, in the future, students from the school will grow into self-sustained individuals and responsible members of society.

Fakhrul Islam Choudhury spoke briefly on this year's theme, "Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress".

The programme concluded with the distribution of stationery kits and sweets to the students, teachers, and staff of the Deaf & Mute School, as a gesture of care and goodwill.

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