Advancing Disability Rights: Upholding UNCRPD & RPwD Act, 2016

• My work in the disability sector has been deeply shaped by the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which India ratified on October 1, 2007. This landmark treaty underscores the rights, dignity, and full participation of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in every sphere of life.
• Building on this global commitment, India enacted the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, which came into force on April 19, 2017. This transformative legislation ensures accessibility, non-discrimination, and empowerment of PwDs. As State Commissioner (Commissionerate for Specially-Abled Persons), Government of Rajasthan, I had the privilege of not only enforcing this law but also strengthening its implementation through decisive judicial interventions and policy measures.

Judicial & Policy Interventions

• During my tenure, I played a key role in operationalizing the Civil Court under the RPwD Act, ensuring it exercised its quasi-judicial powers as per Section 82 of the RPwD Act, 2016, to safeguard the rights of Specially-Abled Persons (SAPs). This initiative led to landmark decisions that addressed
• Disabled child custody cases - prioritizing their welfare and legal rights.
• Harassment and discrimination issues - ensuring justice and protection.
• Property disputes & encroachment matters - safeguarding SAPs' ownership and housing rights.
• Inclusive education & infrastructure challenges - advocating for barrier-free environments.
• Access to government services - reinforcing the right to equality and dignity.

These efforts and decisions have been extensively documented in “The State Commissioner, Specially Abled Persons, Decisions 2022-23” and “Social Justice Divyangjan Decisions 2022-25”—comprehensive publications that serve as reference points for legal, administrative, and advocacy work in the disability rights domain.

A Vision for Inclusive Justice

My constant endeavor has been to ensure that the RPwD Act is not merely a legal provision but a catalyst for social transformation—empowering individuals, strengthening institutions, and fostering an inclusive society. By upholding the principles of justice, equality, and dignity, these initiatives represent a decisive step toward long-term and meaningful change for the specially-abled persons.