Avelino De Sa, President of the Disability Rights Association of Goa (DRAG), has sharply criticized the upcoming edition of Purple Fest, arguing that the event continues to lack meaningful impact for persons with disabilities—particularly those at the grassroots level. While the festival has grown in visibility and enjoys strong government backing, De Sa contends that it remains largely symbolic, failing to bring about lasting change for the community it claims to celebrate.
In a decisive move, De Sa has submitted a seven-point charter of demands to the state government, urging concrete reforms aimed at making Purple Fest truly inclusive and effective. Key demands include better accessibility at public venues, increased funding for disability services, genuine inclusion of persons with disabilities in the festival’s planning and execution, and stricter implementation of existing disability rights laws.
De Sa stressed that true inclusivity cannot be achieved through token gestures. He called for the voices of persons with disabilities to be at the forefront—not just showcased during the festival, but included in long-term policy-making. He also called for ongoing support beyond the event itself, citing the urgent need for accessible public transportation, employment opportunities, and awareness initiatives that reach rural and underserved areas.
Warning of potential protest action, De Sa stated that if the government fails to act on these demands before the next Purple Fest, DRAG will be forced to stage a demonstration to highlight the community’s ongoing struggles. He urged authorities to move beyond lip service and engage in honest, solution-oriented dialogue.
With the government yet to respond formally, the disability community and rights advocates across Goa are closely watching developments, hoping that this year’s festival could finally spark a genuine shift toward accountability and inclusion.