Center does not have data on accessibility of Chandigarh government offices (file photo)
Jagran correspondent, Chandigarh. The Central Government does not have complete data available on accessibility of government offices in Chandigarh for persons with disabilities. The Ministry of Social Justice said that under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016, this responsibility rests with the state governments. The Center provides financial assistance to the states.
In the last two years, 330 hearing aids were distributed in Chandigarh and two children received cochlear implants. Mobile apps and help centers are available for grievance redressal, as well as ensuring quality and warranty of the equipment. This information was given by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in response to a question asked by MP Manish Tiwari in the Lok Sabha.
Minister of State BL Verma said that under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016, it is the responsibility of the state or union territory governments to make government buildings, transport systems and information systems accessible. For this reason, no centrally compiled data is maintained on how many government offices in Chandigarh have ramps, disabled toilets, indicators, low counters and other facilities.
The Minister said that the Central Government provides financial assistance on demand basis to the States and Union Territories for creating barrier free environment for the disabled. For this, grants are given under the special scheme related to the implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act.
On the status of hearing aids, the government said that under the scheme to provide assistive devices to the disabled, 330 hearing aids have been distributed in Chandigarh during the last two years. Apart from this, cochlear implantation has been done in two children.
The minister said that disability certificate is mandatory to avail benefits under the scheme. Full financial assistance is given to beneficiaries up to the prescribed income limit, while there is a provision of partial assistance for higher income groups. Support for cochlear implants in children includes treatment, testing, travel and rehabilitation.
For redressal of complaints related to government offices and accessories, citizens have been provided the facility to lodge complaints through mobile application, toll free service and public complaint system. A special assistance center for disabled people is also being operated in Chandigarh, where equipment is repaired and complaints are resolved.
The Ministry clarified that all assistive devices provided to the disabled are of quality standards and come with a minimum warranty of one year, to ensure timely repairs and maintenance.
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