Plea in the Supreme Court Claiming CLAT, AIBE to Be Violative of Right of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act

In the case of Yash Dodani v. Union of India, the group of students have alleged that there is systemic discrimination and non-compliance with the Right of Persons with Disabilities Act in the way the exams are conducted.

The plea contends that these exams lack appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities, violating their constitutional rights to equality, dignity, and non-discrimination under Articles 14, 15, 19, and 21.

The plea filed in the Supreme Court highlights several barriers faced by visually impaired candidates during exams like the AIBE and CLAT due to the lack of reasonable accommodations.

It argues that visually impaired individuals are denied essential tools such as the option to use computers or access digital formats of Bare Acts during examinations, which are crucial for their preparation and performance.

The petition also addresses the ambiguity surrounding scribe eligibility criteria, insufficient provisions for accessible examination centers, and the absence of standardized measures to meet the needs of disabled candidates. These gaps increase the difficulties faced by visually impaired individuals and create significant disparities in their ability to compete on an equal footing.

Additionally, the plea points to instances where invigilators have displayed a lack of sensitivity or awareness regarding the specific needs of disabled candidates, leading to experiences of harassment and discrimination.

Such practices, the petition contends, violate the fundamental rights of disabled persons under the Constitution and impede their right to a fair and dignified examination process.

To address these systemic challenges, the petitioners have urged the Court to direct the implementation of specific accommodations, including the provision of computers, soft copies of Bare Acts, clear guidelines on scribe eligibility, and fully accessible exam centers. They have also sought mandatory sensitization programs for examination staff to ensure a more inclusive and respectful environment for candidates with disabilities.

These measures, the petitioners argue, are essential to bring examinations in line with the provisions of the RPWD Act, 2016, ensuring equitable opportunities for all participants.