By Special Correspondent
Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Congress spokesperson Ravi Saxena has accused the state government of gross neglect and injustice towards disabled persons. He stated that while the state is home to over 3.5 million disabled people, the government has failed to provide them with constitutional rights and adequate pension.
Saxena pointed out that under the Ladli Behna scheme, eligible women receive ₹1,250 per month, whereas disabled persons are given only ₹600. He termed this not only discriminatory but also a violation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, which mandates at least 25% additional benefits for disabled citizens. He reminded that both the High Court and the Supreme Court have previously directed compliance with this Act.
He further criticised the poor implementation of the Unique Disability ID (UDID) card system. Out of more than 3.5 million disabled persons in the state, only 950,000 have been issued the card, leaving millions deprived of government schemes. Similarly, no survey of disabled children has been conducted, despite a legal requirement for one every five years, adversely affecting their education and employment prospects.
Saxena demanded that the pension be raised to a minimum of ₹1,562, UDID cards be issued within a fixed timeframe, reserved posts be filled, annual surveys be mandated, and a special cell for disability welfare be set up under the Chief Minister’s office.
He accused the BJP government of making tall claims about inclusive development while insulting the dignity of disabled persons with meagre pensions. The Congress, he vowed, will fight for their rights both on the streets and in the Assembly.
