by Mohammad Auyoob Mir
By working together, it is possible to create a more equitable society where persons with disabilities can thrive and reach their full potential.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed annually, each year with a distinct theme that casts a light on critical aspects of disability inclusion. This year’s theme, “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” underscores the imperative of empowering persons with disabilities to take the helm in forging a more equitable society.
Disability is a universal and multi-sectoral issue, transcending boundaries of age, gender, and geography. As Thom Shakespeare has noted, disability is an inevitable part of life, particularly as populations age. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 16 per cent of the global population comprises persons with disabilities.
Historically, disability has been perceived through the medical model, which narrowly focuses on individual impairments and bodily conditions, neglecting the broader social factors that perpetuate exclusion. Mike Oliver’s seminal work, Understanding Disability: From Theory to Practice, introduced the social model of disability, highlighting that disability is not inherent to the individual but rather a consequence of societal barriers, attitudes, and structures.
For instance, a visually impaired student’s inability to use a computer is not their problem but a systemic failure of institutions to provide accessible technologies, such as screen readers.
The United Nations has been instrumental in championing this shift in perspective, from a medical to a social model. Over the years, the UN has played a pivotal role in framing disability rights as a human rights issue. This has been achieved through various initiatives, including the Declaration on the Rights of Disabled Persons (1975), the International Decade of Disabled Persons (1980s), and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in 2006.
These efforts have sought to empower persons with disabilities, transforming them from objects of charity into subjects of rights. As the UN has emphasized, the empowerment of persons with disabilities is crucial for promoting their full and effective participation in society.
In India, where persons with disabilities constitute more than 2% of the population (as per the 2011 Census, with numbers likely increasing by 2024), the theme of leadership and inclusion assumes even greater significance. India has made substantial progress in the disability sector, particularly through the enactment of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD Act, 2016), which aligns with the principles of the UNCRPD.
However, significant gaps remain, especially in the political inclusion of persons with disabilities. Article 29 of the UNCRPD explicitly calls for their political participation. Despite this, India has failed to make concrete efforts to ensure their representation in legislative bodies. India, as the largest democracy in the world, should lead by example by fostering political empowerment for persons with disabilities.
Political representation is not merely a privilege, but a necessity for achieving true social inclusion. To illustrate this point, consider a visit to a clothing shop with a friend. You possess the knowledge, money, and agency to choose what suits you best. However, if your friend were to decide on your behalf without consulting you, the feeling of exclusion and isolation would inevitably arise.
This analogy reflects the experiences of many persons with disabilities in India, who are often sidelined in decision-making processes. The lack of political representation exacerbates their exclusion, rendering them powerless in shaping their destiny.
The inclusion of persons with disabilities in politics is not solely about representation; it is also about driving systemic change. Political participation empowers them to advocate for their rights, influence policymaking, and contribute to the nation’s development. By doing so, they can break down the barriers that have historically marginalised them.
To realize the full potential of persons with disabilities in India, a multifaceted approach is necessary. This encompasses various stakeholders, including government initiatives, political parties, civil society, and the media.
Reserving seats for persons with disabilities in legislative bodies, akin to the model employed for the Anglo-Indian community, is a crucial step. Furthermore, encouraging persons with disabilities to contest elections and providing necessary support to facilitate their participation is vital.
Establishing disability wings within political parties can nurture leadership among persons with disabilities.
Actively including leaders with disabilities in party ranks can amplify their voices and influence, thereby promoting inclusive decision-making.
Non-governmental organizations play a pivotal role in supporting the political aspirations of persons with disabilities through training and advocacy.
Researchers, scholars, and media professionals should underscore the importance of inclusion and offer solutions for creating an inclusive society. By doing so, they can help foster a culture of empathy and understanding.
Fostering inclusive leadership necessitates a collaborative effort from all stakeholders. By working together, it is possible to create a more equitable society where persons with disabilities can thrive and reach their full potential.
Individuals with disabilities have a pivotal role to play in driving change. They must actively engage in public life by joining political parties, participating in elections, and advocating for their rights. Their involvement is critical for bringing about transformation from within.
This year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities serves as a clarion call for India to address the gaps in inclusion and leadership for persons with disabilities. While progress has been made, much more needs to be done to ensure that their voices are heard in every sphere, especially in politics. Empowering persons with disabilities to lead is not merely a matter of representation; it is a step towards building a truly inclusive and sustainable future.
(The author is a social activist and a research scholar in the Department of Political Science at Aligarh Muslim University. Ideas are personal.)
