DEPWD Assisted By Vidhi Centre For Legal Policy Launches Booklet Titled ‘Pathways To Access: Courts On Disability Rights

On 11th September 2023, Ms. Pratima Bhoumik, Minister of State, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment unveiled five transformative initiatives of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Aimed at fostering inclusivity, enhancing awareness, and advancing disability rights, one of these five initiatives was the release of a booklet titled ‘Pathways to Access: Courts on Disability Rights.’ It compiles notable judgments delivered by the Supreme Court of India and various High Courts in the context of disability rights. By making these judgments accessible in one comprehensive consolidated resource, the booklet serves as a reference guide of legal precedents that have shaped the landscape of disability rights in the country. It covers a wide spectrum of issues, including education, employment, accessibility, and discrimination, providing a thorough understanding of the legal framework surrounding disability rights.

The Department was assisted by Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, a not-for-profit legal policy think tank, in compilation of the booklet that offers valuable insights into the legal framework pertaining to disability rights and showcases the evolution of jurisprudence in this sector. Mission Accessibility played a pivotal role in making the booklet accessible to all. The launch of this booklet that serves as a ready reckoner for individuals, legal practitioners, activists, and policymakers in navigating the legal system effectively and advocating for disability rights marks a seminal moment in the ongoing journey toward ensuring equal rights, dignity, and opportunities for persons with disabilities in India.