Supreme Court On Providing Reasonable Accommodation To Employees

INTRODUCTION

There is a growing recognition that diversity and inclusivity extend beyond being the markers of progressive workplaces to being legal obligations that employers must fulfil. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ("RPwD Act") gives this recognition by requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodation to employees to enable them to contribute effectively. This principle goes beyond mere compliance; it represents a move towards workplaces that are adaptive, inclusive, and respectful of dignity.

The Supreme Court's recent decision in CH.Joseph v. Telangana State Road Transport Corporation reinforces this change by stating that employers cannot simply let go of workers who become disabled while on the job. Instead, they must actively look for alternative roles and support ongoing employment. The judgment shows that creating inclusive workplaces is now as much about following the law as it is about workplace culture and values.