The recent decision by the Indian Centre to exclude individuals suffering from thalassemia, sickle cell disease, and haemophilia from the reservation in government jobs has sparked controversy. Despite the recognition of these conditions as disabilities under the Right to Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act of 2016, the government has chosen not to extend the benefits of job reservation to these individuals. It’s important to note that the government provides a 4% reservation in government jobs for specific disabilities. However, activists argue that excluding disabilities recognized in the Act from job reservations undermines the purpose of the Act itself.
Government Job Reservations: Current Status
Currently, the Indian government reserves 4% of positions in government jobs for individuals with specific disabilities. These include total loss of vision, low vision, complete loss of hearing, low hearing, locomotor disability, among others. These provisions are meant to ensure that people with such disabilities are given fair opportunities to contribute to society and live independently.
The Exclusion of Blood Disorders from Job Reservations
Despite acknowledging thalassemia, sickle cell disease, and haemophilia as disabilities under the RPWD Act of 2016, the Centre has decided not to offer job reservations to individuals suffering from these conditions. The government has defended its decision by invoking Section 34 of the RPWD Act, 2016, which states that persons with blood disorders, including thalassemia, are not eligible for job reservation in government establishments.
The Controversy around the Government’s Decision
This move has caused widespread dissatisfaction among disability rights activists and patient advocacy groups. They argue that by excluding disabilities recognized in the Act from job reservations, the government is essentially defeating the Act’s purpose. The RPWD Act was enacted to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure their inclusion and participation in society.
The Implications for Persons with Blood Disorders
The implications of the government’s decision are significant for persons with blood disorders. These conditions are lifelong and often require regular medical attention. Without job reservations, persons with these disorders might struggle to secure stable employment, thereby impacting their quality of life and economic stability.
World Haemophilia Day: A Reminder of Unresolved Issues
The controversy comes to light just as the world marks World Haemophilia Day—an international observance that calls attention to people with inherited bleeding disorders. This day serves as a reminder of the many issues that people with such disorders face, including the recent exclusion from job reservation benefits in India.
Reservation in India: A Historical Perspective
Reservation in India is a policy that has been in place for decades, designed to provide opportunities to marginalized groups. However, controversies surrounding its application have surfaced time and again. The recent decision to exclude persons with certain disabilities from job reservations prompts a fresh debate on the nature and reach of reservation policies in India.
A Call for Inclusive Policies
Against this backdrop, there is a growing call for more inclusive policies that recognize the unique challenges faced by all people with disabilities. Advocacy groups argue that leaving out certain disabilities from job reservations not only defeats the purpose of the RPWD Act but also hampers the larger goal of creating an inclusive society. The debate continues on how best to achieve inclusivity and equality for all.
