Caregiving, traditionally viewed as a thankless and overlooked responsibility, has long been shaped by patriarchal norms. Historically, these norms placed the burden of care primarily on families, often without adequate support from society. This is particularly evident when considering the unique needs of persons with disabilities. Unfortunately, in many instances, these needs are still perceived as a “private domestic issue rather than a collective social responsibility.” CJI DY Chandrachud, emphasized this concern during his speech at the 9th Annual Stakeholders Consultation on ‘Protecting the Rights of Children Living with Disabilities and Intersectionality of Disabilities’ in Delhi.
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NEW DELHI: At the 9th Annual Stakeholders Consultation on ‘Protecting the Right of Children Living with Disability and Intersectionality of Disabilities‘ held in Delhi, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud addressed this issue, highlighting the failure of social institutions to rise to the occasion.
He emphasized that
“while we advocate for these needs to be met by our social institutions, those institutions often fall short of providing the support that is truly needed.”
Traditionally, caregiving has been an often overlooked and undervalued task, deeply rooted in patriarchal norms that have historically placed the responsibility of care on families rather than on societal institutions. These norms have reinforced the idea that caregiving is a private, family-bound obligation, especially when it comes to addressing the unique needs of persons with disabilities.
In many cases, the needs of individuals with disabilities are still viewed as “a private domestic issue rather than a collective social responsibility.” This outdated perspective has long contributed to a lack of comprehensive support systems. As a result, families are left to shoulder the majority of caregiving responsibilities, often without adequate resources, while society at large remains disconnected from this crucial aspect of social care.
This speech brings to light the significant gap between the ideals of a society that cares for all its members and the reality faced by caregivers and persons with disabilities. While there is growing advocacy to shift caregiving responsibilities from the private domain to collective societal responsibility, progress has been slow.
Many social institutions continue to lag in providing the necessary support and resources to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families.
Caregiving for individuals with disabilities should not be relegated to the sidelines of family life but instead recognized as a societal obligation. When the burden of care is placed solely on families, it perpetuates inequalities, particularly for those already facing socioeconomic challenges.
It is imperative to acknowledge that disabilities intersect with other forms of discrimination and marginalization, further complicating the caregiving landscape.
As we move toward creating more inclusive communities, the narrative must shift. The goal should be to develop stronger social support systems that provide caregivers with the necessary resources, training, and respite, while also ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the dignity, respect, and opportunities they deserve.
A concerted effort from both public and private sectors, combined with a robust policy framework, is essential to effect this transformation.
Ultimately, caregiving must be seen not just as a familial obligation but as a “collective social responsibility” that requires the active participation of all sectors of society.
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