Today, On 13th July, The Supreme Court urging the government to introduce a dedicated daily news bulletin for individuals with hearing and speech impairments. This initiative is part of the Court’s broader effort to promote equal rights for persons with disabilities, following a July ruling that criticized the stereotyping of disabled individuals in visual media and films.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday requested Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati to seek guidance from public broadcaster Prasar Bharati regarding the possibility of introducing a daily special news bulletin tailored specifically for individuals with hearing and speech impairments.
Justice B.R. Gavai urged the senior law officer,
“Please come back with a positive response on this matter,”
Justice K.V. Viswanathan, who also on the Bench, commented that the government should not wait for the Supreme Court’s directive to initiate such an important step.
Justice Viswanathan advised Ms. Bhati,
“There’s no need to delay; this could be implemented as soon as tomorrow,”
Ms. Bhati assured the court that she would consult with Prasar Bharati and work to resolve the issue, briefly mentioning that the latest Broadcasting Bill had been temporarily withdrawn.
This move by the court follows a judgment issued in July that criticized the stereotyping of persons with disabilities in visual media and films. The judgment condemned portrayals that mock or exaggerate disabilities, noting that such depictions perpetuate discrimination.
The court also denounced the use of derogatory terms like ‘cripple‘ and ‘spastic,’ which stigmatize individuals with disabilities.
The judgment emphasized the need for a legal framework that prevents such stigmatisation and discrimination, recognizing the significant impact these actions have on the dignity and identity of persons with disabilities.
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This move is also seen as a step toward fulfilling the objectives of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which mandates the government to take appropriate measures to ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy the same rights as others. By implementing specialized news bulletins, the government would be advancing the spirit of this legislation, promoting equality, and upholding the dignity of all citizens.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s advocacy for accessible news bulletins underscores the importance of inclusive communication in a diverse society, urging the government to take concrete steps toward making news accessible to all, regardless of their physical abilities.