Tauseef Ahmad
Srinagar, Dec 3: Sores of persons with disabilities under the banner of the J&K Handicapped Association on Wednesday staged a protest in Srinagar, accusing the government of neglecting their basic rights and failing to fulfill long-pending commitments related to employment, pensions, health benefits, and accessibility.
The protesters while carrying placards and shouting slogans expressed anger over what they termed the “government’s indifferent attitude” towards people with disabilities.
Speaking with the reporters, the protesters demanded the implementation of statutory 4% job reservation in government departments, enhancement of monthly disability pension, issuance of comprehensive disability certificates, and barrier-free infrastructure in public spaces.
“We have protested many times, but the government has not listened to us. They only make promises and nothing happens on the ground,” said one of the protesters. Calling the official celebrations of World Disability Day “an insult,” said one of the protesters.
The protesters said that Jammu and Kashmir observes it today as a “black day” on International day of persons with disabilities because their concerns remain unresolved.
Another protester Zahoor Ahmad, said the government had failed even to provide a dignified livelihood. “The government has forced us to beg. We survive on ₹1,000 pension, which is nothing. They should increase it to at least ₹3,000,” he said, demanding that political leaders deliver on their pre-election commitments.
The protesters alleged that the person with disabilities are facing severe challenges in accessing education, employment, and public facilities. They warned of intensifying protests if the administration does not open dialogue and address their grievances.
