Srinagar, Dec 03: On a day meant to celebrate inclusion and dignity, Padma Shri awardee Javed Ahmad Tak expressed deep concern that disability rights in Jammu and Kashmir remain largely unaddressed, despite clear directions from the Supreme Court of India and robust provisions under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Tak, one of J&K’s most prominent disability rights advocates, said that even fundamental guidelines, such as reservation in promotions for employees with disabilities, have not been implemented on the ground.
He said it was heartbreaking that people with disabilities had to take to the streets on World Disability Day, a day meant to acknowledge their potential. “Instead of celebrating our abilities, we are forced to protest for basic rights. That alone reflects our reality,” he said.
According to Tak, the spirit behind the global observance is being misunderstood. “World Disability Day isn’t about charity. It is about strengthening our capabilities and ensuring we are part of every sphere of society,” he added.
He lamented that despite nationwide initiatives, including the Accessible India Campaign, accessibility in Jammu and Kashmir remains negligible. “A few cosmetic changes were made at some locations, but most funds lapsed without meaningful work. Ramps, tactile pathways, accessible transport—these are still missing almost everywhere,” he said.
Tak said the government must at least issue clear instructions mandating accessibility in all new constructions. “If new buildings continue to be built without ramps, lifts or accessible washrooms, how do you expect a wheelchair user to participate in daily life? Such oversights push our community to the margins,” he noted.
He said the four per cent reservation in jobs for persons with disabilities is also not being honoured consistently. “Many officials don’t even know what our legal rights are. Even though the exam fee exemption exists, disabled applicants are still compelled to pay because lower-level staff are unaware of the rule,” he said.
Tak spoke emotionally about the social mindset that continues to stigmatise disability. “At times, we aren’t treated as humans. The rules guarantee medical support and assistive devices, but on the ground, people are left to manage alone,” he said.
Comparing J&K’s disability pension to other regions, he said the amount offered is “shockingly low”. “While several states provide between Rs 5,000 and Rs 15,000 per month, J&K still gives only a few hundred. It should be raised to at least Rs 6,000 so that families can manage basic expenses,” he urged.
He also called for complete exemption from electricity and water charges, as well as free ration, for households where a disabled person is the head and relies solely on a pension.
Tak warned that unless the administration acts swiftly, promises of inclusion will remain hollow. “Rights written on paper mean nothing until they change lives on the ground,” he said—(KNO)
