Jaipur: The Rajasthan Commissionerate for Specially-Abled Persons has directed the Directorate of Specially-Abled Persons to examine a representation seeking a review of guidelines that restrict an additional monthly assistance of Rs 1,000 to persons certified with 100% disability.The representation, submitted by Hemant Bhai Goyal, national chairperson of Divyang Adhikar Mahasangh, argues that the existing criterion excludes people who depend on others for routine daily activities but have disability certificates showing 80%-85% disability.The commissionerate forwarded the representation to the additional director of the Directorate of Specially-Abled Persons and asked the department to take action in accordance with rules. It has also sought details of the action taken.Goyal referred to an announcement made by the previous Congress govt during discussion on the Finance and Appropriation Bill on March 21, 2022. The govt had said persons with disabilities dependent on others for daily activities would receive an additional Rs 1,000 per month over and above their social security pension. However, guidelines issued by the directorate on Dec 30, 2022, made 100% disability certification mandatory for the additional assistance.Goyal argued that the disability percentage alone does not reflect the level of support a person may require. People with intellectual disabilities, multiple disabilities, cerebral palsy, autism and locomotor disabilities may depend on others for daily activities despite being certified with 80%-85% disability, he said.The representation cited Section 38 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which provides for special measures for persons with disabilities requiring high support.Goyal has sought a change in eligibility norms, proposing that the additional assistance be granted on the basis of a govt doctor’s certification that a person needs help with daily activities rather than the percentage of disability alone.The directorate is yet to communicate its decision on the representation.
