The new government office in Bhilai is not accessible to my wheelchair, can I complain under the state accessible buildings law?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Yes, you can file a complaint regarding the inaccessibility of the new government office in Bhilai under the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, as well as under state-specific regulations concerning accessible buildings.

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, aims to ensure that persons with disabilities have equal access to public facilities and services. Here are the key points regarding your situation:

• Legal Framework: The Act mandates that all public buildings must be accessible to persons with disabilities. Specifically, Section 44 of the Act states that the government must ensure that persons with disabilities have access to buildings, roads, and transport facilities.
• Complaints Procedure: If a government building is found to be inaccessible, you can lodge a complaint with the appropriate authorities. This may include:
• The local municipal authority responsible for building regulations.
• The District Disability Rehabilitation Centre (DDRC) in your area.
• The State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
• Documentation Required: When filing a complaint, it is beneficial to have the following:
• A written complaint detailing the specific accessibility issues you encountered.
• Photographs or videos showing the lack of access, if possible.
• Your contact information for follow-up communications.
• Follow-up: After submitting your complaint, you have the right to receive a response. The authorities should investigate the matter and provide a timeline for rectifying the accessibility issues.

In addition to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, some states in India have specific Accessible Buildings Acts, which further clarify the requirements for public buildings. For instance, the Chhattisgarh State Government may have enacted regulations that complement the national law, focusing on the construction and modification of public buildings to meet accessibility standards.

It is also advisable to reach out to local advocacy groups for persons with disabilities who can provide assistance and guidance throughout the complaint process. They may also have resources or contacts that can help expedite the resolution of your issue.