Discrimination and Barriers for people with disabilities
‘Vasudev Kutumbakam’ – the world is one. India has always had a firm belief in this slogan and continues to do so, it is a diverse country which includes people of all kinds be it religion, race, caste, creed, etc. However, when it comes to the inclusion and rights of people with disabilities, the country faces significant challenges. Discrimination and barriers persist, hindering the full participation of individuals with disabilities in society. In today’s world, diversity and inclusion have become central values in the quest for a more equitable society. This article delves into some of the persistent challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, ranging from social non-acceptance to limited employment opportunities and even everyday tasks like discerning between vegetarian and non-vegetarian food.
Social Non-Acceptance – One of the most pervasive and deeply rooted challenges faced by people with disabilities is social non-acceptance. This issue manifests in a myriad of ways, from subtle exclusion to outright discrimination.
For instance, individuals with visible disabilities may encounter stares, intrusive questions, or even mockery in public spaces. Others may experience social isolation, as people without disabilities may hesitate to engage with them due to discomfort or ignorance.
Limited Employment Opportunities – Another critical issue faced by individuals with disabilities is the scarcity of employment opportunities. Despite numerous laws and initiatives aimed at promoting equal employment opportunities for example – The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, The Equality Act, 2010,etc., unemployment and underemployment rates among people with disabilities remain disproportionately high.
Harassment and Stigmatization – Harassment and stigmatization of people with disabilities are deeply concerning issues that persist in society. Verbal abuse, bullying, and even physical violence against individuals with disabilities occur far too often. This behavior not only harms the immediate victims but also perpetuates a culture of discrimination and exclusion.
Accessibility Challenges – Even seemingly straightforward tasks like identifying food can pose significant challenges for individuals with disabilities. For instance – For the blind, distinguishing between vegetarian and non-vegetarian food can be a daunting task, reflecting a broader issue of accessibility and information dissemination.
In many cultures, dietary preferences, ethics, or religious beliefs dictate whether one consumes vegetarian or non-vegetarian food. For a person with visual impairment, not being able to differentiate between these food types can lead to uncomfortable situations or conflicts with personal values.
Education and Healthcare Disparities – Despite the expansion of educational opportunities, disabled children have not yet benefited in any substantial manner. It is believed that these children become more dependent and non-productive, requiring highly specialized facilitators due to which educational opportunities were not extended for them. The new National Policy on education recommends the placement of such children in regular schools which will take care of them accordingly. Hopefully with the provision of the necessary infrastructure – teachers, equipment and books, et cetera, it would provide a great relief to disabled children and their parents along with such citizens.
Infrastructure and Transportation Barriers – Transportation is a vital aspect of daily life, allowing people to access education, employment, and social activities. However, individuals with disabilities frequently encounter barriers in the transportation system, limiting their independence and opportunities for social engagement.
Inadequate public transportation infrastructure, such as the absence of ramps, elevators, or designated seating areas, makes it difficult for people with mobility impairments to use buses and trains. Moreover, the lack of accessible information about routes and schedules can hinder their ability to plan their journeys effectively.
Furthermore, ride-sharing and taxi services sometimes discriminate against passengers with disabilities. Drivers may refuse to accommodate wheelchairs or service animals, contributing to the isolation and frustration of individuals who rely on these services.
Author: Deepika Jain, BM Law College