For the last 6 years, along with Disability right activists and groups across the country, I have been fighting to get the Disability Right Bill passed in the parliament. This bill gives 70 million differently abled citizens and their families equal rights.
Most of the differently abled people in India spend their lives locked up inside their homes because they hardly have access to anything other people take so much for granted. I want to change this.
But we were let down by the Government. The Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment had assured us that the Bill would be introduced in the Winter Session of Parliament. The abrupt end of the Parliament session on 18th December prevented the Bill from being tabled.
With General Elections three months away, the Parliament may not be re-convened early next year for any legislative business. If that happens, then the Disability Rights Bill won’t be passed for years, adversely affecting millions of lives.
However, if, political parties come together and show political will, theParliament can be reconvened in January (even if it is for a day!) and the Disability Rights Bill can be tabled. Like the Lokpal Bill.
That’s why I started this petition asking Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Kamal Nath and Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, Kumari Selja demanding the following-
1. When the Parliament session is convened to pass the Vote on Account in January or February, the disabilities bill must also be taken up by both, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, for enactment.
2. Include reservation for persons with disabilities in Parliament and other institutions of democracy in new Disability Right Bill.
Millions of differently abled people need your support. Sign this petition and share it with your friends and family. More support will ensure immediate action.
People with disabilities have the right to be politically empowered. Please sign our petition.
Thank you,
Pradeep Raj, Disabled Power Group- New Delhi,
disabledpower@yahoo.in , 9350164514
Disabled Right Group (National)
