‘Special measures for polls, but why not for vaccination?’

Some government vaccination centres are not disabled-friendly, say activists

Swelling crowds at COVID-19 vaccination centres are making many anxious, forcing them to put off their second vaccine dose despite having had to wait for long to book a slot. Imagine the state of those with disabilities who have to compete with others to make their way through the rush for the jab. Organisations working for the rights of persons with disabilities said that accessibility measures are lacking at some government vaccination centres which increases their hurdles to access healthcare. “During elections, vehicles are sent to the homes of voters who have disabilities. Volunteers who handle wheelchairs are stationed at polling booths. When special measures are taken during elections, why aren’t the same extended during vaccination,” questioned M. Srinivasulu, president of Network of Persons with Disabilities Organisations. The Right to Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, states that the appropriate government and the local authorities shall take necessary measures for persons with disabilities to provide barrier-free access in all parts of government and private hospitals and other healthcare institutions and centres.