NHRC discusses progressive disabilities, rights of PwDs

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, held a hybrid-core group meeting on Monday to address the theme, ‘Recognising progressive disabilities- Adopting a holistic approach to disability rights’. Chaired by NHRC Chairperson Justice V Ramasubramanian, the meeting brought together officials, experts and stakeholders to discuss how to improve the welfare of persons with disabilities (PwDs).

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Justice Ramasubramanian emphasised the need for stronger laws and policies to ensure greater inclusivity for PwDs. “While we’ve made significant progress globally in recognising disability as a human rights issue, more needs to be done to refine our laws,” he said. He acknowledged milestones in India’s disability framework but suggested that the existing system needed improvement.

“The framework can be further strengthened for better service delivery,” he added. A key topic of discussion was the role of the private sector in creating more job opportunities for PwDs. Justice Ramasubramanian urged, “The participation of the private sector is vital for providing sustainable livelihoods for PwDs, which will not only improve their living standards but also promote societal inclusion.”

NHRC Member Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi called for a collaborative approach from government and society.