Bhubaneswar: Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy has called for greater accessibility and inclusion of persons with disabilities in democratic institutions, saying equality for every citizen must remain an unchanging principle of democracy.
Addressing a Commonwealth Parliamentary Association session on ‘Accessible Parliament: Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities’ in Cape Town, South Africa, Padhy said persons with disabilities have made significant contributions to Indian culture and civilisation, citing the example of sage Ashtavakra, and noted that several persons with disabilities have represented people through India’s democratic institutions and contributed to the country’s progress.
She said more than 90 lakh persons with disabilities were registered as voters in the 2024 general elections and noted that the ongoing digitisation of Parliament and legislative assemblies could further strengthen their representation and participation.
Padhy also referred to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, saying it has created opportunities for equality, accessibility and participation for persons with disabilities.
Highlighting initiatives in Odisha, the Speaker said the Banishree Scholarship and Bhim Bhoi Bhinnakshyam Samarthya Abhiyan are important state government measures to support students with disabilities in education.
She said Odisha also provides assistance through assistive devices, skill development, rehabilitation, special education, social security, sports and livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Padhy emphasised that while technology and institutions continue to evolve, democratic systems must ensure equal participation and accessibility for all citizens.
Jharkhand Assembly Speaker Rabindra Nath Mahato, Rajya Sabha MP C. Sadanandan Master and Maharashtra Legislative Council Chairman Professor Ram Shinde also participated in the discussion.
Padhy is attending the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association programme in Cape Town along with Odisha Assembly Deputy Speaker Bhawani Shankar Bhoi and Assembly Secretary Satyabrata Rout
