Kolkata's Disabled Community Demands Inclusion in Political Manifestos Ahead of New Government
In a significant gathering in Kolkata, individuals with disabilities from across the city have made a strong appeal for their inclusion in political manifestos. They are urging the upcoming government, set to be formed next month, to prioritize policies that address their welfare and needs.
Key Demands Highlighted During Panel Discussion
During a panel discussion organized by the NGO NIP on Friday, approximately 100 disabled voters presented their demands to representatives from various political parties. The most prominent request was a substantial increase in the monthly disability allowance.
Sanjay Singh, secretary of an organization for disabled people in Paikpara, emphasized the urgency of this issue. He stated, "In the run-up to elections, parties come up with their manifestos, but the welfare of disabled people like us hardly gets highlighted. What can we do with the paltry monthly allowance of Rs 1,000? Whichever party forms the new government, we want it to raise the allowance so that we don't have to beg. I am also a disabled person and banking on the monthly allowance that I save, I help out others."
Infrastructure and Employment Concerns Raised
Beyond financial support, activists highlighted critical gaps in infrastructure and employment opportunities. Suman Bhattacharya, an autism activist from New Alipore, pointed out the lack of proper facilities for educating children with disabilities.
She explained, "My son, Binayak Ruku, is autistic, but he can do everything like others. Government schools do not have special educators for students with disabilities, such as autism. There ought to be employment avenues for them as well. I want the new government to look into it and to be more inclusive."
Political Responses and Promises
Representatives from political parties responded to these demands during the discussion. Bimal Sankar Nanda, a BJP functionary, announced that if his party is voted to power, the disability allowance would be doubled to Rs 2,000 per month.
However, when many attendees expressed dissatisfaction with this modest hike, Nanda attempted to pacify the audience by sharing a personal connection, saying, "My sister is disabled, and I understand your woes."
Cross-Party Support for Welfare Initiatives
Other political leaders echoed the need for bipartisan efforts to support the disabled community. Kanti Ganguly, a CPM veteran, highlighted the financial struggles faced by sponsored schools for the disabled, noting that many are on the brink of closure due to lack of funds.
He urged, "Going beyond politics, we need to work for the welfare of these people." Similarly, Raj Kumar Basak of SUCI emphasized, "We don't deem disabled people as a vote bank. They are human beings, and all of us politicians should fight for them."
Voter Sentiment and Future Implications
The discussion concluded with a powerful statement from Nepo Mondal, a blind voter, who warned politicians, "If you don't look into our issues, we will not vote." This sentiment underscores the growing political awareness and activism among disabled voters in Kolkata, who are determined to hold the new government accountable for inclusive and equitable policies.
