Summary
In continuing disability-rights implementation proceedings, the Court required States and Union Territories to address the newly commenced 2016 Act, rather than only the earlier 1995 regime. Their expanded responsibilities required immediate concrete implementation and compliance reports within twelve weeks, including ensuring compliance by other covered bodies.
Issues
- What further compliance was required following commencement of the 2016 disability-rights legislation.
Provisions considered
- Sections 12, 32–35, 84–85 and 89–90, Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016The judgment highlighted expanded access, education, employment and enforcement duties to guide compliance. (¶ 14–24)
Held
- The 2016 Act commenced on 19 April 2017 and expanded rights, covered categories and institutional responsibilities. Its benefits required actual implementation. (¶ 11–23)
- States and Union Territories were directed to take immediate steps and file reports within twelve weeks stating concrete action under the 2016 Act. They must ensure other covered institutions and entities follow applicable duties. (¶ 24)
- Reports were to be supplied to the petitioner, Union and applicant/intervenor counsel. Copies of the order were to go to Chief Secretaries and Union Territory Administrators. (¶ 25–26)
Result
Compliance directions issued; matter listed for 16 August 2017. Proceedings continued.