On cards at DU: smoother poll process for the disabled : Delhi

The Delhi University authorities are taking several measures to ensure the smooth participation of differently-abled students in the Delhi University Students’ Union elections next month.

“We have issued notices to college principals to provide adequate facilities to students belonging to the Persons with Disability category so that they can participate in the poll process without any glitches,” said Bipin Tiwari, officer on special duty, Delhi University’s Equal Opportunity Cell.

With the Delhi University Students’ Union polls scheduled for September 13, officials have instructed colleges to provide smooth access for these students to polling booths. Colleges have been told to place the polling booths on the ground floor.

In addition, they will be required to arrange for sign language interpreters for students with hearing impairment. Volunteers will be at hand for assistance.

“The colleges are required to comply with mandatory provisions under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability. This is being done to ensure that these children do not get left out. Several measures will be taken, such as locating the booths on the ground floor and providing wheelchairs,” said Tiwari.

Parties, too, are making arrangements to assist the students. “We have been doing this every year and will continue doing so this year too. We will allocate special volunteers who will guide these students through the entire process,” said a member of the NSUI.


Source : Hindustan Times , 29th August 2013