Supreme Court Judge Declares: Disability Inclusion Affirms Equal Personhood, Not Charity

New Delhi:

Supreme Court judge Justice Vikram Nath emphasized on Wednesday that disability inclusion represents "not an act of charity" but rather an affirmation of "equal personhood."

During his keynote address at a webinar hosted by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Justice Nath delivered this powerful message.

The distinguished judge, who also serves as the executive chairman of NALSA, stated, "Inclusion is not an act of charity; it is an act of affirmation of equal personhood. When we remove the barriers, we do more than create accessibility; we unlock human potential." He highlighted that inclusion signifies the creation of improved spaces where every individual can participate meaningfully, and stressed that legal aid outreach must be disability-inclusive.

Justice Nath called for District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) to conduct regular visits to mental health institutions, special schools, and community centers, while ensuring that mobile legal services vans and legal literacy initiatives reach those unable to access the system directly.

He advocated for making disability sensitization a mandatory component in the training curriculum for judges, lawyers, police personnel, and court staff.

The Supreme Court judge urged legal service institutions to assist persons with disabilities in accessing key government welfare schemes and benefits.

Furthermore, Justice Nath suggested that legal information should be made available in various accessible formats including braille, audio recordings, large-print materials, and digital formats.

He emphasized the necessity for institutions to demonstrate collective determination in making stronger, actionable commitments toward providing disability-inclusive justice.

Concluding his address, Justice Nath quoted renowned American disability rights advocate and author Helen Keller: "Keep your face to the sunshine, and you cannot see a shadow."