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Key Themes and Arguments
1. The “People First” Approach
The petition is intentionally written in “People First Language,” emphasizing that the focus should be on the individual’s individuality and capabilities rather than their disability. It calls for the end of derogatory terms like “crippled” or “handicapped” in all official and judicial proceedings.
2. Medical vs. Social Model of Disability
The petitioners argue that Pakistan must move away from the “Medical Model” (viewing disability as a sickness to be cured) and adopt the “Social Model.” This approach recognizes that people are “disabled” not by their impairments, but by a society that fails to provide inclusive infrastructure and equal rights.
3. Major Challenges Highlighted
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Ineffective Legislation: The existing Disabled Persons (Employment & Rehabilitation) Ordinance, 1981 is outdated and based on obsolete models.
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Lack of Access to Education: PWDs are often segregated into “special education” rather than being included in the mainstream system. The petition highlights that no university in Pakistan is fully accessible.
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Employment Quotas: The statutory 1% to 2% employment quota for PWDs is largely ignored by both the government and private sectors.
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Inaccessible Infrastructure: Public transport (like the Railways and Metrobus) and public buildings lack basic facilities like ramps or accessible washrooms.
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Inaccurate Data: Official census data on disability is described as “unscientific” and unreliable, with prevalence rates significantly lower than global estimates (7–15%).
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Political Exclusion: PWDs are often unable to vote because polling stations lack accessible booths, sign language interpreters, or Braille ballot papers.
Specific Demands (The “Prayer”)
The petitioners requested the Supreme Court to direct the government and relevant agencies to:
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Implement Employment Quotas: Ensure all government and private establishments meet the legal hiring requirements for PWDs.
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Inclusive Education: Move away from segregated schooling and ensure all higher education institutes (HEC) provide Braille books and accessible campuses.
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Physical Accessibility: Mandate that all buildings, roads, airports, and transport systems (Railways, Metrobus) be made barrier-free.
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Media Sensitivity: Direct PEMRA and PTV to stop the use of derogatory language and provide sign language interpretation for news and programs.
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National Survey: Direct the Bureau of Statistics to conduct a comprehensive and scientifically accurate national survey on disability.
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Voting Rights: Ensure the Election Commission of Pakistan makes the democratic process accessible via Braille ballots and physical access to polling stations.
Summary for Stakeholders
This petition is a landmark effort to shift disability from a matter of “charity” to a matter of “constitutional right.” It demands that the state fulfill its obligations under the 1973 Constitution and international law to ensure that millions of Pakistanis with disabilities can live with dignity, independence, and full social inclusion.