KATHMANDU, Oct 18: A meeting of the parliament today unanimously endorsed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill-2072 BS.
Minister for Law, Justice and Federal Affairs Ajay Shanker Nayak presented the Bill before the House on behalf of Prime Minister and Minister for Women, Children and Social Welfare Pushpa Kamal Dahal.
Taking part in the discussions about the theoretical aspects of the Bill, CPN-UML lawmaker Dr Bansidhar Mishra suggested that the Bill needs to be revised broadening the definition of the disabilities.
Act of hope
Madhesi Janadhikar Forum (Democratic)'s Dr Subodh Pokhrel said the Bill has failed to pay attention to the proper categorisaiton of persons with disabilities and ensure their socio-economic empowerment.
CPN (UML)'s Rewati Raman Bhandari said some provisions mentioned in the Bill are not in line with the spirit of federalism. Another party's lawmaker Guru Burlakoti sought a clear definition of disabilities in the distribution of social security allowance.
Rastriya Prajatantra Party Nepal's Kunti Kumari Shahi demanded the guarantee of atmosphere in which the disabled can live in the society with dignity, and free health and education facilities and of employment opportunity are provided to them.
CPN (Maoist Centre)'s Ram Narayan Bidari spoke of the need of some amendments to the Bill before its endorsement.
Bill meant for empowering persons with disabilities
Responding to voices of lawmakers regarding the Bill, Minister Nayak said the Bill is aimed at ending all sorts of existing discriminations against the disabled and bringing them into the mainstream of empowerment, guaranteeing their rights on every front. RSS
