Panaji: The office of the state commissioner for persons with disabilities (PwD) has sought an action taken report from Birla Radha Krishna temple, BITS Pilani, after a wheelchair user alleged she was denied entry with her personal wheelchair. The report has been requested to be submitted within 15 days.
Commission's Directive
The office of the state commissioner for persons with disabilities called on Birla Radha Krishna temple, BITS Pilani, to submit the report within 15 days. “...you are requested to kindly look into the matter on priority and take appropriate steps to ensure that such incidents like exclusion, discrimination, denial of dignity and inaccessibility are not repeated against any person with disabilities in compliance with the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016,” the commission stated.
Incident Details
The commission received an email from a wheelchair user with 50% locomotor disability regarding denial of access and discrimination faced by her on May 17 during her visit to the temple. It was stated that she was denied entry despite the temple being wheelchair-accessible.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by persons with disabilities in accessing places of worship and public spaces. The commission's intervention underscores the legal obligations under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which mandates equal access and prohibits discrimination.
The temple authorities have been directed to review their policies and ensure compliance with accessibility standards. The commission has emphasized that such incidents of exclusion or denial of dignity must not recur. The action taken report will detail steps taken to address the complaint and prevent future occurrences.
This case serves as a reminder for all public institutions and places of worship to adhere to accessibility norms and uphold the rights of persons with disabilities. The commission continues to monitor compliance and take necessary action to ensure inclusivity.
