Inclusion of differenly abled persons in developmental programmes deliberated

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Mar 18: A one-day consultation programme on the topic “Inclusion of women with disabilities in development plans and data collection on the gaps and action plans” was held today at Manipur Press Club, Majorkhul.
The consultation program was jointly organized by the State Platform for Disabled People’s Organizations (SPDPO), All Tribal Disabled Union Manipur (ATDUM) and Equitable Catalyst Society (ECS).
Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW) Member Chongsin Koireng, SPDPO president Md Yunus Khan, Kiran Yendrembam among others graced the programme as the presidium members.
Speaking at the occasion, Chongsin Koireng stressed on the need for fulfillment of gaps in the implementation of action plans and developmental plans for inclusion of women with disabilities.
She went on to assure that MSCW will work for the welfare of the women with disabilities  and ensuring their rights.
Yunus Khan called for building unity among the disabled persons in the State and participating in the programs organized for them.
While underscoring the importance of making the disabled know about their rights and benefits given under relevant schemes,   he maintained that the voice of the disabled in the State will be heard by the competent authorities when they collectively raise their voice and work together.
In his speech, Kiran pointed out that many people with disabilities cannot avail the benefits given under various Governmental schemes as they are not aware of the schemes and their fundamental rights given under the the Right of Persons With Disabilities RPWD Act, 2016 and Indian Constitution.
Condemning that a person with disability was allegedly beaten up by a 2nd OC and IO of a police station on March 14 last, Kiran informed that the SP concerned of the district has assured of suspending the officers involved in the incident today.
During the program, People With Disabilities demonstrated a protest against the act of sidelining them while taking up developmental programs and action plans in the State and the country as a whole.