PwD job quota backlog worries expert

SHILLONG: Non-implementation of the jobs quota for persons with disabilities (PwDs) has created a “huge backlog” posing a challenge for governments and civil societies, said Prasanna Pincha, special rapporteur, disabilities, National Human Rights Commission.
Pincha told reporters said many states have complied with the 4 per cent reservation rule under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
He pointed out that various departments should cooperate for better implementation of the Act as all departments have to play a role and reserve job vacancies for PwDs.
Commenting on inclusive education, Pincha, who is also former Chief Commissioner for PwDs, observed choice must be given to students with disabilities while also encouraging inclusive education.
“You will have to carry on both. Of course, you must encourage inclusive education but you must give choice to students with disabilities,” he said.
“The so-called special schools will have to continue for various reasons. There are many details to it. Right now, both inclusive system and special education should continue,” he added.
Pincha said awareness on entitlements and rights of PwDs living in rural and hilly areas should be intensified.
According to him, the awareness is more pronounced in urban and semi-urban areas. “People in rural areas need to know what their entitlements and rights are under the law. But compared to the past, there has been some awakening and awareness, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas,” he added.