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Key Highlights of the Code
1. Fundamental Rights and Dignity
Equality and Non-Discrimination: The Act guarantees PWDs the right to be respected for their individual dignity and prohibits any form of discrimination by public or private institutions.
Right to Privacy: PWDs have the same right to privacy as any other citizen, including protection from arbitrary interference in their homes, families, or communication.
Vulnerable Groups: The government is mandated to take special measures to protect and empower women, children, and senior citizens with disabilities.
2. Accessibility and Mobility
Physical Access: All public and private buildings, hospitals, parks, streets, and transport systems must be made accessible. New infrastructure must meet established accessibility standards to receive approval.
Public Transport: The government must provide special seats and exclusive parking spaces for PWDs at all public places free of charge.
Communication: PWDs are entitled to access all forms of mass communication, including information technology, without any charge.
3. Education and Employment Quotas
Equity in Education:
PWDs are entitled to free education in government institutions and a 50% fee relaxation in higher education.
A 5% quota is reserved for admissions in all educational institutions, along with a minimum 5-year age relaxation.
Equity in Employment:
A 3% quota is reserved for PWDs at all levels of government service.
Private establishments are encouraged to hire PWDs through incentives.
Establishments that fail to meet the employment quota must pay twice the amount of the salary/minimum wage into a dedicated fund for the rehabilitation of PWDs.
4. Health and Rehabilitation
Free Medical Care: The government must ensure barrier-free access to public health services without any cost to PWDs.
Insurance: The Council is tasked with devising special life, medical, and accidental insurance schemes for PWDs.
Independent Living: The government will bear the cost of community support services (such as personal assistants) to help PWDs live independently in their own homes.
5. Housing and Family Rights
Housing Quota: A 5% quota is reserved for PWDs in government and private housing schemes, including a 50% concession on the total cost.
Right to Family: PWDs have the right to marry and raise a family. Forced sterilization is explicitly prohibited and categorized as a non-compoundable offense.
6. Justice and Safety
Access to Justice: PWDs must have unhindered access to the justice system, including law enforcement and courts. Legal cases involving PWDs are to be decided on a priority basis.
Disaster Protection: In situations of risk, armed conflict, or natural disasters, PWDs must be given top priority for protection and rescue.
7. Institutional Framework
Provincial Council: A “Provincial Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities” is established to oversee the implementation of the Act. It includes the Minister for Social Welfare, government officials, and representatives from the PWD community.
Rehabilitation Fund: A dedicated fund is established to finance projects, provide insurance, and support the welfare of PWDs.
8. Enforcement and Repeal
This Act repeals the old Disabled Persons (Employment and Rehabilitation) Ordinance 1981 in its application to Gilgit-Baltistan, replacing it with these more robust, rights-based protections.