Guwahati, Feb 22: Ahead of the upcoming Assam Assembly elections, persons with disabilities (PwDs) on February 21 called for enhanced political representation, reservation across governance levels and the time-bound implementation of disability rights laws in the state.
The demands were voiced during a state-level consultation held under the ‘Mera Vote, Mera Bharat’ campaign, spearheaded by the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People in partnership with Young Indians Guwahati and supported by Mphasis F1 Foundation. More than 130 participants, including PwDs, representatives from Organisations of Persons with Disabilities and industry stakeholders, took part in discussions focused on tackling political exclusion and ensuring inclusive governance.
Arman Ali, executive director of NCPEDP, said democracy derives its strength from equal participation of all citizens, emphasising that persons with disabilities are asserting their constitutional rights rather than seeking charity.
Participants outlined a series of key proposals, including a five per cent reservation for PwDs in governance structures, mandatory gender- and disability-inclusive panchayats, and incentives to encourage private sector initiatives that promote accessibility. They also urged the introduction of affordable and accessible private health insurance schemes. Further demands included dedicated budget allocations for inclusive education, disability sensitisation and training programmes, the development of accessible sports infrastructure, and expanded awareness campaigns on disability rights.
The consultation aimed to provide a formal platform for PwDs to communicate their expectations directly to political stakeholders. Organisers said the demands would be compiled into a comprehensive charter and submitted to major political parties, urging them to incorporate the recommendations into their election manifestos.
With more than two lakh registered voters with disabilities in Assam, organisers believe the initiative could shape political commitments in the forthcoming Assembly polls, expected to take place in March or April.
