India has made significant progress in recognizing and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities (PwDs) through legal frameworks and policies. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, is a landmark legislation that replaced the earlier Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995, aligning India’s disability rights with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

Key Rights Under the RPwD Act, 2016

1. Increased Disability Categories: Expands the recognized disabilities from 7 to 21, including autism, thalassemia, and acid attack victims.
2. Right to Equality and Non-Discrimination: Ensures equal opportunities in education, employment, and social inclusion.
3. Reservation in Education & Jobs: Provides 4% reservation in government jobs and 5% in higher education for PwDs.
4. Accessibility Provisions: Mandates accessible public infrastructure, transportation, and digital platforms.
5. Social Security & Benefits: Offers disability pensions, assistive devices, and financial support.
6. Protection Against Exploitation & Abuse: Strengthens legal safeguards to protect PwDs from discrimination and abuse.
7. Right to Free Education: Ensures inclusive education for children with disabilities between ages 6-18 in mainstream schools.