The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has notified the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Amendment) Rules, 2024. These amendments were published on June 19, 2024 and have come into immediate effect.
The amendment rules expand accessibility standards to include:
- Police Stations: Persons with disabilities visiting police stations will now benefit from accessibility features outlined in a Ministry of Home Affairs notification dated January 2nd, 2024.
- Prisons: Accessibility standards will be implemented within prisons to ensure equal access for inmates with disabilities.
- Disaster Mitigation Centers: These centers will be required to adhere to accessibility guidelines to guarantee inclusivity for persons with disabilities during emergencies.
These amendments aim to improve the accessibility of essential services for persons with disabilities in India. Police stations will be more accessible, promoting equal access to the justice system for people with disabilities. Accessibility features in prisons will enhance the lives of inmates with disabilities. Disaster mitigation centers will be better equipped to assist persons with disabilities during emergencies.
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD) and its rules mandate accessibility standards in various public spaces. This amendment ensures these crucial facilities adhere to accessibility guidelines, fostering a more inclusive society for all.
