On this poignant occasion of Disability Day, it is disheartening to reflect upon the prevailing characteristics of our society and its treatment of disabled individuals. Today, as we mark a day dedicated to raising awareness and promoting inclusivity, it becomes even more crucial to shed light on the harsh realities faced by those with disabilities.
As a visually challenged individual, it is with a heavy heart that I address the current state of our society and its treatment of disabled people. Upon closer examination of ground-level realities, one is confronted with shocking facts. Unfortunately, even in today’s so-called liberal society, we encounter a disheartening truth: when an individual attains esteemed positions such as becoming an IAS officer but happens to have a disability, society views them through a different lens.
Regardless of their personality, status, rank, and myriad qualities, a person with a disability often experiences palpable reluctance from others to engage with them. The pervasive sentiment appears to be one of embarrassment, as if the mere act of walking alongside them is a social faux pas.
The resulting isolation and lack of genuine interactions contribute to a profound sense of exclusion.
Adding to this social conundrum is the paradoxical phenomenon wherein a disabled individual possessing every conceivable merit—be it a good job, an appealing personality, or elevated social status—still faces resistance when it comes to forging meaningful connections. It is disheartening to observe that, even in such instances, society tends to prefer aligning with an able-bodied individual, despite lacking qualities that ostensibly define success.
In certain instances, discrimination against disabled individuals reaches such depths that they are considered virtually useless, a stark contrast to their accomplishments and capabilities. A poignant reflection of this societal bias can be found in some Kashmiri idioms:
“ae’nes mush havun ne sawab ne gunah” – ‘a blind man is no judge of colors’.
“ae’n senz kolai khadayas hawal” – which translates to the wife of a blind person relying solely on the mercy of God.
This saying encapsulates the grim reality faced by the family members of disabled individuals, who are unfairly burdened by society’s prejudices.
Numerous examples abound, each more disheartening than the last, painting a picture of a society that continues to disappoint. In light of these distressing observations, it becomes imperative to raise questions that challenge the very foundations of our societal norms. Why does an individual’s worth seem contingent upon their physical abilities? Why does accomplishment not override prejudice? How can we claim progress in a society that marginalizes and sidelines its disabled members?
Shouldn’t this day serve as a reminder that our focus should be on breaking down barriers, both physical and societal, that hinder the full integration of disabled individuals into our communities?
On this Disability Day, let us not only acknowledge the struggles but commit to being agents of change, working towards a society that embraces and celebrates the unique strengths of all its members.(CNI) Current News of India