Kohima DC orders places of worship to ensure PwD accessibility

KOHIMA — The deputy commissioner of Kohima has directed all places of worship in the district, including churches, temples, mosques and other religious institutions, to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities (PwDs) with immediate effect.

The order, issued on September 15, cited directions from the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment concerning “alleged discrimination against persons with locomotor disabilities at religious places/places of worship”.

It stated that such practices, if any, would violate provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, including those relating to equality and non-discrimination, protection from cruelty and inhuman or degrading treatment, and accessibility of public places and services.

Under the directive, places of worship have been asked to implement minimum accessibility measures at the earliest.

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These include ramps with proper gradient and handrails at entry and exit points, removal of physical barriers, and provision of step-free access wherever feasible.

The order also calls for accessible signage, including Braille and tactile maps, as well as auditory assistance systems. Places of worship have been directed to provide reasonable accommodation during festivals, special pujas and peak hours.

“No person with disability shall be denied entry or subjected to differential treatment on account of their disability,” the order stated.

Management committees, trusts, priests, church associations and other authorities responsible for places of worship have also been directed to sensitise and train their personnel on provisions of the RPwD Act.