The Commissionerate for Special Persons with Disabilities has issued a directive to the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) and the department of local self-government to enforce accessibility facilities at marriage halls, banquet halls, and wedding venues across the city. The authorities have been instructed to conduct a comprehensive citywide survey of such venues and ensure compliance with accessibility norms within a stipulated time frame.
Background of the Directive
This action follows a representation submitted by Hemant Bhai Goyal, national chairman of the Disabled Rights Federation, Rajasthan. In his complaint, Goyal highlighted that many marriage and banquet venues in Jaipur continue to operate without basic accessibility infrastructure as mandated under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016, and the Accessible India (Sugamya Bharat) Campaign.
Alleged Violations
According to the representation, several venues lack essential facilities such as ramps, hand railings, wheelchair-accessible toilets, lifts, barrier-free entrances, and dedicated parking spaces for persons with disabilities. Goyal claimed that minimum accessibility standards were not being adequately followed, causing inconvenience and exclusion for differently abled citizens attending social functions.
Demand for Compliance
Goyal demanded that compliance with disability accessibility norms be made a mandatory condition for the grant and renewal of licenses issued to such establishments. The Commissionerate has now directed the concerned authorities to take necessary action to ensure that all marriage and banquet venues in Jaipur adhere to the prescribed accessibility standards, thereby promoting inclusivity and equal access for persons with disabilities.
