Respect PwD Act 2016 or serve jail time: Birahari
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, October 17 2023:
Informing that violation of guidelines of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 could entail either fine or jail time, Persons with Disabilities (PwD) commissioner W Birahari has urged for effective implementation of all welfare activities for the differently-abled people.
The 16th fortnight barrier free campaign was launched by Handicapped Development (HD) Foundation on the theme of 'Make access, make inclusive' at the office of State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities on Tuesday.
A poster and a leaflet for the campaign were also released on the occasion.
Speaking as the chief guest, W Birahari expressed that once the PwD Act is effectively implemented in Manipur, the barrier free vision will become a reality.
Taking into account the difficulties faced by differently-abled people in accessing different departments, letters were sent to around 50 of them to take up steps to make the departments barrier-free.
While Social Welfare Department has installed a lift, around 27 departments will soon become barrier free as well.
According to the provision of Rights of PwD 2016, there should be a playground/recreation and rest area for the differently-abled.
A team of the Ministry concerned has already inspected Kangla Fort and a DPR prepared, to make the fort barrier free, he informed.
In addition, there is reservation for differently abled during job recruitment processes, If the guidelines of this Act are not followed, the Sessions Court Judge is empowered to take up requisite action.
Furthermore, HD Foundation had submitted a memorandum urging for taking up the necessary steps for the welfare of differently-abled in public areas, public and private sectors, banks, oil pumps, etc., Birahari conveyed.
Presided over by HD Foundation chairman Dr Sapam Jasowanta, the inaugural function was attended by Social Welfare Department deputy director Dhaneshwor and Department's Disability Cell deputy director Robinson as guests of honour.
As part of the function, related devices were distributed to the differently abled persons in attendance.