Attack on entire differently-abled: ATDUM
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 18 2025: All Tribal Disables Union, Manipur (ATDUM) expressed deep anguish and strong condemnation over the brutal killing of Chesam Abdul Kadir, a differently-abled person from Paobitek Mayai Leikai.

In a release, ATDUM urged authorities concerned to take immediate and stringent action under the law against all those involved in the inhumane act.

Reminding all concerned that the differently-abled persons are also human beings with equal rights and dignity, just like any other citizens, it said the cruel and discriminatory treatment meted out to Abdul Kadir is not just an assault on the individual but an attack on the entire differently-abled community.

ATDUM pointed out that under Section 20 (3), (4), (5) of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016: "No person with disability shall be discriminated on the ground of disability, unless it is shown that the impugned act or omission is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim; no person shall be deprived of his or her personal liberty only on the ground of disability; and government shall take necessary steps to ensure reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities".

Further, under Section 89 of the RPWD Act, 2016, any person who contravenes any of the provisions of this Act, or of any rule made thereunder shall for first contravention be punishable with fine which may extend to Rs 10,000 and for any subsequent contravention with fine which shall hot be less than Rs 50,000 but which may extend to Rs 5 lakh.

Moreover, Section 92 provides safeguards of the differently abled persons from intentional insults or intimidation with intent to humiliate in any place within public view, and from assaults or use of force with intent to dishonour him or outrage the modesty of a woman with disability, the release explained.

ATDUM also extended full solidarity with the Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed in response to the heinous incident, and pledged support to any action or democratic agitation that the JAC may initiate to seek justice for Abdul Kadir.

"Justice must prevail.

The lives and dignity of differently-abled persons must be protected, " the release added.

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