SC Directs States To Ensure Compliance Of Law Meant For Welfare Of Differently-Abled Persons

Terming the implementation of welfare legislation for differently-abled persons "dismal", the Supreme Court directed the states and Union territories (UTs) on Monday to ensure compliance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 by September 30.
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A bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices P S Narasimha and Manoj Misra also directed the states and UTs to appoint chief commissioners to monitor the implementation of the law.
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The top court said the status of implementation of the legislation indicates a "dismal position across the country".
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The Act provides persons with disabilities (PWD) with the right to equality and non-discrimination, besides a quota in employment and other welfare measures.
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The court was hearing a petition about the enforcement of the rights of differently-abled persons by implementing the Act. Earlier, it had directed the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to file a counter-affidavit regarding the implementation of the Act across the country.
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"We direct state governments to ensure due compliance with provisions of the Act expeditiously before September 30. Chief commissioners are to be appointed by August 31," the bench said.
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It said the Union ministry has to coordinate with all the state governments and ministries concerned and file a status report.
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The matter has been posted for further proceedings on September 18.