Article On Rights Of Person With Disabilities Act, 2016 In India

The Government of India has notified the Rights of Person with Disabilities Act, 2016 ("New Act") to give effect to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. Previously the subject of disability was dealt under the Persons With Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995 ("Old Act"). The number of disabilities recognised under the law has been increased to 17 form 7 recognized under the Old Act, and have been elaborately defined. The law recognizes for the first time blood disorders, intellectual disability, disability caused due to neurological conditions, acid attack etc. as disabilities. The law has become more gender sensitive as separate provisions have been made for women suffering from disability; such as responsibility has been conferred upon the government to ensure that women and children enjoy equal rights, to formulate