What are the main features of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016?

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Correct option is D

All of the above

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 was a landmark legislation in India aimed at safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities (PwDs) and ensuring their inclusion in society. Some key features of the Act include:

1. Increase in the number of recognized disabilities: The Act increased the number of disabilities recognized from 7 to 21. This expansion allows more conditions to be included under the definition of disabilities and provides greater support and services to individuals affected by them.

2. Increase in reservation for persons with disabilities: The percentage of reservation in government jobs and educational institutions was increased from 3% to 4% for persons with disabilities. This ensures better representation and opportunities for PwDs in public life and services.

3. Special courts for handling cases related to violations of rights of PwDs: The Act mandates the establishment of special courts in each district to deal specifically with cases concerning violations of the rights of persons with disabilities. These courts aim to expedite legal proceedings and ensure faster justice for the victims of such violations.

Thus, all the statements mentioned in the options are correct and are part of the major provisions of the Act.

Information Booster:

1. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 was passed to align with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which India ratified in 2007.

2. The increase in the number of disabilities reflects the diverse nature of disabilities, including mental illness, speech and language disabilities, and learning disabilities.

3. The special courts are designed to make the legal process more accessible and efficient for persons with disabilities who are often marginalized in the justice system.

4. Increased reservation ensures that persons with disabilities have a fair opportunity to contribute to society, gain employment, and access education.

5. The Act mandates accessibility, social inclusion, and non-discrimination, emphasizing the importance of providing equal opportunities to PwDs in all spheres of life.

Additional Information:

• The Act also includes provisions for accessible infrastructure, transportation, and information technology, ensuring that persons with disabilities can participate fully in society.

• The legislation empowers the National and State Commissions for Persons with Disabilities to monitor the enforcement of the rights of PwDs and address grievances.

• Rights of persons with disabilities include the right to live independently, participate in decision-making, and have access to education, employment, healthcare, and social security.