Today, On 16th August, The High Court criticized the Maharashtra government for failing to make the state advisory board on disabilities operational, despite previous orders to do so. The court expressed concern over the government’s inaction and emphasized the importance of implementing the board’s functions to address disability-related issues effectively.
New Delhi: The Bombay High Court on Friday strongly criticized the Maharashtra government for not activating the state advisory board, which was established to develop policies under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, despite previous court orders.
Last month, a division bench comprising Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar had instructed the government to make the board operational as soon as possible. The court also directed senior state officials to convene a meeting to finalize the selection of non-official members for the board.
However, during the hearing on Friday, additional government pleader Abhay Patki informed the court that while officials met on August 13, they were unable to finalize the names of the non-official members.
This response frustrated the High Court bench, which remarked that it knows how to ensure its orders are followed.
The court sternly questioned,
“Do you intend to render this court dysfunctional? Do you think we don’t know how to enforce our orders? Now, tell us what to do?”
The bench emphasized that establishing the board is not just a court order but also a legislative mandate.
Summoning state Advocate General Birendra Saraf, the court warned,
“Do not create a situation where something very displeasing will occur.”
The bench instructed Saraf to review the matter and specify the timeframe within which the board will be established.
The High Court scheduled the next hearing for this matter on August 20.
Read Also: Bombay High Court Urges Action on Disability Rights in Maharashtra
This issue arose during the court’s suo motu (on its own motion) consideration of a case that brought attention to the challenges faced by disabled individuals due to the placement of bollards on footpaths. These bollards have been installed in such a way that they obstruct access for people with disabilities, making it difficult for them to navigate the sidewalks.
The court’s proactive involvement underscores its concern for ensuring that public infrastructure is accessible to all, particularly those with disabilities, and highlights the broader issue of compliance with disability rights and accessibility standards.