NE NEWS SERVICE
CHENNAI, MARCH 26
The National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD) expressed its strong disappointment over the relief measure for the disabled announced by the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman on Thursday.
In a statement issued here, Muralidharan, General Secretary of NPRD said the Minister has announced a one time ex gratis amount of Rs. 1000/- for disabled persons through Direct Bank Transfer. The amount by itself is very meagre and adding insult to injury is the fact that this will be given in two instalment spread over three months, which would average to Rs. 333.33 per month. This is grossly inadequate.
Besides, around half of the disabled population identified by the 2011 census do not possess a disability certificate mandatory for any entitlement under the schemes, as per data released by the Department of Disability Affairs, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India.
Therefore, even this paltry amount will not reach out to large number of diabled persons identified in the 2011 census.
In addition, the 2011 census had enumerated only persons having seven disabling conditions. Since then the number of conditions recognised as disabled has increased three-fold to 21.
The vast mass of the disabled, who come from the most socially and economically deprived backgrounds and who are amongst the worst hit during such times are left to fend for themselves.
What else to expect from a government which has long abandoned its responsibilities towards the weaker and marginalised sections of society,
It is for the government be keep in mind that apart from bearing costs towards aids & appliances and their maintenance, many disabled persons also need a full time caregiver. Often, an earning member of the family has to give up employment for this purpose. The burden of the household increases manifold and accentuates poverty.
What is needed is an ex gratia payment of Rs. 5,000 per month to all disabled, till the lockdown is lifted and the country is rid of the Coronavirus, Muralidharan said.
