CJI Chandrachud Notes Progressive Shift in Viewing Disability in India

Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud recently highlighted a significant change in the perception of disability. Speaking at the India Accessibility Summit and State Disability Commissioners Conclave in Bengaluru, he noted that training, public meetings, and policy-making have contributed to this shift.

Focus on Disability Sensitisation

Training academies for administrative officers now include modules specifically for disability sensitisation. State commissioners in various regions are organising public meetings to enhance service delivery and inform policy-making based on real-life experiences of people with disabilities, according to the CJI.

Justice Chandrachud mentioned that dedicated clinics at universities, such as the Centre for Disability Studies at NALSAR, Hyderabad, and policy think-tanks like CLPR and Vidhi Centre for Legal Policies, have improved understanding of accessibility issues. NGOs and other institutions, both independent and sponsored, also play a crucial role in this regard.

Corporate Initiatives

Private corporate entities have been proactive in promoting various initiatives. These range from research grants and CSR contributions to inclusive hiring practices, as noted by Justice Chandrachud. However, he emphasised that there is still a long way to go before achieving full accessibility, autonomy, and equal participation for persons with disabilities.

The CJI stressed the need for accurate statistics on persons with disabilities. These statistics should be broken down by gender, urban-rural divide, and types of disabilities to better understand and address their needs.

Challenges in Workplace Inclusion

While more government and private bodies are employing persons with disabilities, workplace conditions are improving only gradually. Technological solutions often remain prohibitively expensive and inaccessible to those who need them most.

Justice Chandrachud pointed out that nearly 20 crore people live with psychosocial disabilities. He noted that society is ill-prepared to properly diagnose and accommodate their needs. Honest communication of these needs is essential for developing effective solutions.

The CJI concluded by acknowledging the progress made but reiterated the need for continued efforts to achieve true accessibility and inclusion for all persons with disabilities.