SHILLONG: The Association for Empowerment of Divyangjan (AED), Meghalaya State Unit, announced on Wednesday that six groups have been affiliated with the organization to bolster its efforts to promote the welfare of persons with disabilities and address their challenges across the state.
At a press conference held at the Shillong Press Club, AED State President Jitendra Dkhar shared that the association recently met with the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and submitted a memorandum highlighting key issues and demands.
Dkhar urged the Commissioner to ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities are fully protected and implemented as per existing laws.
He described the meeting as positive, with the Commissioner acknowledging the concerns raised and assuring the association of support.
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Despite these assurances, AED expressed concern over what it described as poor implementation of disability-related laws in Meghalaya.
Dkhar alleged that many government departments lack adequate awareness of legal provisions for persons with disabilities, resulting in ineffective policy and program implementation.
He further noted that, despite attaining various educational qualifications, many persons with disabilities remain unemployed due to limited government job opportunities, leaving them confined to their homes and facing ongoing socio-economic challenges.
The association called on the state government to ensure effective enforcement of disability rights laws, increase awareness among government departments, and create more employment opportunities to promote equal rights, accessibility, and inclusion for persons with disabilities throughout Meghalaya.
(4FrontMedia news)
