PANJIM: The Disability Rights Association of Goa (DRAG) has filed a complaint with the Panjim police and the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) for insulting and humiliating persons with disability (PwD) and using derogatory language against them.
DRAG president Avelino De Sa said, “Yesterday (Tuesday) at a press conference Transport Minister and BJP candidate Mauvin Godinho said only a blind and deaf person can say that there is no development. We strongly condemn this statement as it is insulting and humiliating towards persons with disability as he has used derogatory language towards us.”
De Sa said that today due to advancement of technology the visually impaired can see and the hearing impaired can hear. Hence, the DRAG has filed a complaint with the CEO and Panjim police as it is violating Section 7 and 92 of the Rights of Persons with Disability Act 2016 and the model code of conduct.
De Sa said, “Today it has become a fashion among politicians to use disability to put down their political opponents or showcase their development. This has to stop and we should show respect to persons with disability.|
De Sa demanded to know what development he is talking about when even after 25 years of Persons with Disability Act 1995, panchayat and transport offices and buses are still not accessible for persons with disability.
