By Our Correspondent
BHUBANESWAR:In a changing world order, democracy is facing many new challenges. Technology is changing and institutions are also transforming. But democracy must ensure equality for every citizen and this principle can never be changed, said Speaker Smt. Surma Padhi.
Speaking at the ‘Accessible Parliament: Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities’ programme of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Conference held in Cape Town, South Africa, Speaker Smt. Padhi gave the example of Rishi Ashtavakra and said that the contribution of the differently-abled to Indian culture and civilization is undeniable.
In the Indian democracy too, many differently-abled persons have represented and contributed to the progress of the nation. More than 9 million differently-abled persons were registered as voters in the 2024 general elections. Now, the Parliament and the Legislative Assembly are being digitized and this can further ensure their representation and participation. Smt. Padhi said that the ‘Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016’ enacted by the government has brought opportunities for equality, accessibility and participation for the differently-abled.
Speaker Smt. Padhi also said that ‘Bani Shree Scholarship’ and ‘Bhim Bhoi Ontikaaphakshaan Abhiyan’ are important initiatives of the state government to support Divyang students in education. She mentioned that in Odisha too, assistance is being provided for assistive devices, skill development, rehabilitation, special education, social security, sports and livelihood opportunities.
On this occasion, Jharkhand Speaker Shri Rabindranath Mahato, Rajya Sabha MP C. Sadanandan Master, Maharashtra Legislative Council Speaker Professor Ram Shinde were present and participated in the discussion.
It is worth noting that Speaker Smt. Padhi was joined in this conference by Deputy Speaker Shri Bhavanishankar Bhoi and Secretary Shri Satyabrat Raut.
