Sign language in Punjab Assembly soon: Minister
Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, and Social Justice and Empowerment Baljit Kaur underscored the state government’s commitment to inclusivity, stating that sign language will soon be implemented in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha.
The initiative, subject to approval by the Speaker, will ensure that proceedings are accessible to hearing impaired citizens. Baljit Kaur announced this during a state-level celebration of International Sign Language Day here today.
The minister also revealed that Punjab Police personnel would be trained in sign language to better assist individuals with speech and hearing disabilities, ensuring they received justice. She reiterated that the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, accorded priority to promoting sign language as part of its broader mission to support the marginalised.
“It is our duty to uplift those who are disadvantaged in any way. For individuals who cannot speak, their inner strength and talent are immense. It is our responsibility to recognise and nurture this potential,” she said.
Baljit Kaur encouraged children with hearing and speech disabilities to view sign language as a gateway to new opportunities, allowing them to pursue their ambitions without restriction.
Deputy Commissioner Preeti Yadav highlighted the efforts of the district administration towards supporting individuals with hearing and speech impairments.
The event featured vibrant performances by students of Patiala School for the Deaf, Patiala Association for the Deaf, Vani Integrated School for Hearing Impaired, Noida Deaf Society and Speaking Hands Society of Rajpura.
SSP Dr Nanak Singh, ADC (Urban Development) Navreet Kaur Sekhon, SDM Arvind Kumar, District Social Security Officer Jobandeep Kaur Cheema, District Programme Officer Pardeep Singh Gill, Col Karminder Singh and Jagdeep Singh, along with many speech and hearing-impaired persons from across the state were present at the event.
