The Madras High Court has directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure that permanent ramps are constructed in routinely notified polling booths, particularly in educational institutions and public buildings, in strict compliance with the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Court's Directive on Accessibility
The first bench comprising Chief Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari and Justice G Arul Murugan also instructed the ECI to take expeditious and effective steps to ensure easy access of websites for persons with disabilities. The court observed that despite directions from the Supreme Court and various guidelines issued by the ECI over time, permanent ramps are still absent in most educational institutions and public buildings that are designated as polling booths during elections.
Plea and Judicial Observations
The order was passed while disposing of a petition filed by Vaishnavi Jayakumar, who sought disabled-friendly polling booths. The court noted that temporary ramps made of wooden planks are erected only a few days before elections, and persons with disabilities continue to face numerous problems and shortcomings each time. The bench emphasized the need for permanent infrastructure to ensure barrier-free access for all voters.
The directive aims to uphold the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure their full participation in the electoral process. The court's ruling underscores the importance of compliance with disability laws and the need for proactive measures by authorities.
