[ad_1]
NEW DELHI: Disability rights organisations have objected to DMK MP A Raja’s remarks equating Sanatan Dharma with HIV and leprosy.
The Leprosy Mission Trust India, in a letter to Raja, has asked him to reconsider his statement and “publicly apologise for any harm caused”. The letter has been endorsed by the Association of People Affected by Leprosy, among others.
The signatories also plan to write to the chief disability commission under the department of empowerment of persons with disability at the Centre to take note of the statement. Leprosy cured persons are listed among 21 categories of the disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016.
Activists leading platforms like the National Platform for Disabled Persons and National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People have also raised concerns and objected to Raja’s statement.
In a letter add ressed to the DMK member, Nikita Sara, head, communication and advocacy, The Leprosy Mission Trust India, said it is of utmost importance that elected representatives exercise caution and responsibility when discussing sensitive topics, such as health conditions like leprosy. “The words and attitudes of leaders have a profound impact on public perception and behaviour.”
The Leprosy Mission Trust India, in a letter to Raja, has asked him to reconsider his statement and “publicly apologise for any harm caused”. The letter has been endorsed by the Association of People Affected by Leprosy, among others.
The signatories also plan to write to the chief disability commission under the department of empowerment of persons with disability at the Centre to take note of the statement. Leprosy cured persons are listed among 21 categories of the disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016.
Activists leading platforms like the National Platform for Disabled Persons and National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People have also raised concerns and objected to Raja’s statement.
In a letter add ressed to the DMK member, Nikita Sara, head, communication and advocacy, The Leprosy Mission Trust India, said it is of utmost importance that elected representatives exercise caution and responsibility when discussing sensitive topics, such as health conditions like leprosy. “The words and attitudes of leaders have a profound impact on public perception and behaviour.”
#Disability #rights #bodies #slam #Raja #India #News
