Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Ashish Shelar has announced new policy measures to enhance inclusion and accessibility for people with disabilities in response to a powerful speech by retired Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. This announcement took place during the launch of “The Journal of Inclusion and Disability: Research, Neuro Rehabilitation, and Empowerment” at the National and Asian Resource Centre for Inclusion in Bandra, Mumbai. The center is part of ADAPT (Able Disable All People Together), founded by disability rights advocate Dr. Mithu Alur.
In his heartfelt address, Justice Chandrachud shared the challenges he faces as a father of two adopted daughters, Priyanka and Mahi, who live with nemaline myopathy, a rare neuromuscular disorder. He illustrated the significant barriers to accessibility in education and public spaces, calling for urgent structural changes. “Every public space reflects the same inaccessibility. Our lives had to be built around their needs. Accessibility for everyone must become the default for every space,” he emphasized, advocating for a society that prioritizes dignity and equality.
Drawing on constitutional principles, Justice Chandrachud argued that inclusion is not merely an act of charity but a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution. “The edifice of our Constitution rests on three pillars: liberty, equality, and fraternity, each inseparably linked with human dignity,” he stated, underlining the urgent need for inclusive design. “Dignity is more than an abstract desire; it is a design problem that must be tackled now.”
Moved by Justice Chandrachud’s remarks, Ashish Shelar, who serves as Maharashtra’s Minister for Culture and Information Technology, announced the formation of a special committee aimed at promoting inclusive digital literacy throughout the state. He also pledged to reassess government recruitment policies to ensure equitable opportunities for individuals with disabilities. “As IT Minister, I will establish a special committee to make digital literacy inclusive in Maharashtra. We will also look into inclusive ways of filling government vacancies,” Shelar affirmed.
Additionally, Shelar highlighted the importance of amplifying the voices of resilience and empowerment within society. He took to social media platform X to express his commitment, stating, “This remarkable initiative not only amplifies voices of resilience and empowerment but also strengthens the vision of a society that is truly inclusive, compassionate, and equitable.”
Discussing the journal, Dr. Mithu Alur noted that the publication aims to raise awareness about disability and inclusion. After three to four months of preparation, the biannual journal consists of 80 pages dedicated to educating readers on these vital issues. “We still have a lot of work to do in terms of networking with universities, schools, and parents. We plan to make the journal available on e-commerce platforms and in bookstores, and we’ll collaborate with educational institutions to maximize its reach. The journal emphasizes community stories and aims to use podcasts and video content on social media to further this initiative,” she revealed.
Accompanying Dr. Alur at the launch were Dr. Samiran Nundy, a renowned surgeon and the editor-in-chief of the journal, along with Dr. Farokh Udwadia, a pulmonologist and joint editor. Their collective efforts are set to empower individuals with disabilities and promote a more inclusive society.
Published – August 25, 2025 06:07 am IST
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/ex-cji-chandrachuds-call-for-inclusion-spurs-immediate-government-action/article69972187.ece
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Publish Date: 2025-08-25 06:07:00
