SC orders six ministries, two authorities to provide easy access for differently-abled

The Supreme Court today (April 18) called on six ministries and two authorities to provide facilities to those with special needs to facilitate easy access to these government institutions.

The order was issued by a Supreme Court judge bench comprising Justices Prasanna Jayawardana, Vijith Mallegoda, and Murdu Fernando, regarding a fundamental rights petition filed by Dr. Ajith Perera.

While delivering the verdict, the Supreme Court ruled that these government institutions had violated the rights of differently-abled persons by not providing facilities which could provide easy access to the buildings.

Accordingly, orders were issued on the following Ministries and Authorities - to provide facilities which would assist the differently abled to visit these institutions.

• Social Services and Social Welfare Ministry
•  Housing and Construction Ministry
• Justice and Prison Reforms Ministry 
• Education Ministry
• Provincial Councils, Local Government and Sports Ministry
• Megapolis and Western Development Ministry
   
• Tourism Development Authority
• Urban Development Authority
   

Further, these changes are to be done in accordance with the Disabled Persons (Accessibility) Regulations No. 1 of 2006, the Supreme Court ordered today.

The Supreme Court also announced that cases could be filed against the authorities which violate this verdict at the Magistrate and High Courts. Meanwhile, the government was ordered to pay a penalty of Rs 50,000 to the petitioner.