SHIMLA- The legal experts say that the persons with disabilities deserve both accessibility and Inclusiveness in society.

They were speaking on different topics at the International Colloquium on Accessibility Rights of Persons with Disabilities organised by  Centre for Studies Related to Differently Abled (CSD) at Himachal Pradesh National Law University Shimla, in collaboration with Disability Rights Clinic, Galgotias University here today. 

The event aimed to foster inclusivity and address challenges faced by the community through discussions, experiences sharing, and innovative solutions.

Led by Prof. (Dr.) Nishtha Jaswal, Vice-Chancellor of HPNLU, the Colloquium commenced with an introduction by Dr. Sachin Sharma, Director of CSD.

Dr. Sharma highlighted the prevalent symbolic violence in society and the need for a disability jurisprudence focusing on real-life perspectives.

Prof. Jaswal, in her inaugural address, stressed the importance of accessibility and changing societal perceptions towards inclusivity.

Chief Guest Prof. (Dr.) Ranbir Singh emphasized the normalizing use of sign language and diverse accessibility modes for an inclusive environment.

The Colloquium featured two sessions. The first, themed "Accessibility and Disability," included speakers Dr. Upneet Lalli, Dr. Shivani Gupta, and Mr. Nipun Malhotra. Dr. Lalli facilitated an exercise to demonstrate visual diversity challenges, while Dr. Shivani advocated for inclusive environments and seamless mobility. Mr. Malhotra shared his personal journey of accessibility.

The second session, "Capacity, Inclusion, and Disability," featured Dr. J.S. Jayara, Mr. Nilesh Singit, Dr. Smitha Nizar, Prof. Eilionóir Flynn, and Prof. Michael Schwartz. Dr. Jayara inspired attendees with his life experiences and highlighted the capabilities of blind students.

Mr. Singit discussed the gap between academia and the real world in terms of disability-friendly environments.

Prof. Flynn emphasized the obligation of accessibility for the State, while Dr. Nizar explored the social and UNCRPD approaches to understanding disability. Prof. Schwartz, along with his interpreter, stressed the need for sign language education to ensure justice for the deaf community.

The Colloquium was organized by Dr. Sachin Sharma, in collaboration with Disability Rights Clinic, Galgotias University. Prof. (Dr.) S.S. Jaswal, Registrar of HPNLU, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants and contributors.

The event provided a platform for meaningful discussions on accessibility rights, ultimately striving for a more inclusive and accessible society for persons with disabilities.