Physically Challenged Teachers Forced into Poll Duty Despite High Court Order
The Election Commission (EC) has sparked controversy by requiring physically challenged individuals to undergo medical check-ups before considering exemptions from poll duties, a move that has left many feeling harassed and distressed. This directive comes despite a Calcutta High Court order from July 2023 that prohibits the deployment of such persons as polling officers if statutory bars exist.
Personal Struggles Highlight Systemic Failures
In Hooghly district, Sandip Ghosh, a schoolteacher with semi-paralysis on his left side, has been repeatedly assigned poll duty as a presiding officer despite declaring his disability before every election. He expressed frustration, stating, "I cannot hold or carry anything, yet I am told to attend training or face a show-cause notice. I will only be released after a medical test, but until then, I must follow instructions." Similarly, Debashis Chattaraj, who has hearing and speech impairments, has been assigned the same role, causing significant stress to his mental health, as communicated by his wife, Surangana Chattaraj.
Protests and Legal Backing
In response, the Shikshanuragi Oikya Mancha, a forum advocating for physically challenged teachers, plans to stage a protest at the EC office on Friday. Kinkar Adhikari, the general secretary, emphasized, "Despite High Court guidelines, people with special needs are being forced into election duty and harassed. Why must they prove their disability every time?" The Calcutta High Court's order explicitly directs that physically challenged persons should not be deployed as polling officers if there is a clear statutory prohibition, underscoring the legal basis for their demands.
Broader Implications and Calls for Change
This issue highlights a broader pattern of insensitivity within election administration, where individuals with disabilities are subjected to unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. The EC's current stance not only contradicts judicial directives but also exacerbates the challenges faced by those already navigating physical limitations. Advocates argue for a more compassionate and streamlined process that respects the rights and dignity of all citizens, urging immediate reform to prevent further harassment and ensure compliance with legal standards.
