Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Aug 28: The physically challenged persons have decried the “apathy” of State Government towards them and started “indefinite” hunger strike over non-fulfillment of their demands.
The physically challenged persons, who started the hunger strike under the banner of Jammu and Kashmir Handicapped Association at Press Enclave here, have put series of demands before the Government which include setting up of an Advisory Board and appointment of full-time Disability Commissioner.
The other demands include increase in monthly pension from rupees 400 to 4000, reservation quota in employment, allotment of plots and shops, 3 percent reservation in all District boards constituted by Government and private sector for various classes of people and health covers with special package as well as free medical aid in Government and private nursing homes.
The president of Handicapped Association, Abdul Rasheed, said the ruling coalition, like its predecessors, has also “ignored the plight” of physically challenged persons. “Due to government apathy, 5 lakh physically challenged persons are running from pillar to post in search of dignified life,” he said.
Rasheed said they had sought a meeting with Chief Minister and few other Cabinet Ministers but none of them responded. “Recently we met Governor NN Vohra and apprised him about our issues. Although he wrote to Chief Minister and MoS Social Welfare but no positive response came from their side,” he said.
Warning State Government, the president of Handicapped Association said the hunger strike would continue till their demands and issues are sorted out. “And, if hunger strike failed to influence Government, we will take dire steps and the ruling coalition would be responsible for the same,” he added.
Follow our WhatsApp channel