Handicapped persons protest against authorities’ apathy in Srinagar
Srinagar: In a protest against official indifference and continued neglect by the authorities in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, members of a Handicapped Association staged a demonstration at Press Enclave in Srinagar.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the protesters raised slogans against the administration, accusing it of failing to address their long-pending grievances and ignoring repeated representations submitted over the years. They alleged that despite assurances, no concrete steps have been taken to safeguard the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in the territory.
Carrying placards, the association members said that persons with disabilities continue to face immense hardships due to inadequate infrastructure, lack of employment opportunities and delayed assistance. They also claimed that a similar protest was earlier held in Jammu, but no government representative came forward to engage with them or respond to their concerns.
The protesters demanded effective implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, in letter and spirit. They called for strict enforcement of provisions related to reservation in government jobs and educational institutions, as well as the extension of welfare measures guaranteed under the law.
The protesters called for initiation of a structured dialogue with representatives of the disabled community and establish monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance by all departments. The protest concluded peacefully.
