The new government office in Bhubaneswar 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 Bhubaneswar under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the relevant state laws pertaining to accessible buildings.

In India, the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, mandates that all public buildings, including government offices, must be accessible to persons with disabilities. The act recognizes multiple disabilities and aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities and access to public facilities.

Here are the steps and key points to consider when filing your complaint:

• Understand the Legal Framework:
  • The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensures accessibility in public buildings (Section 44).
  • Refer to the relevant state legislation, such as the Odisha Rights of Persons with Disabilities Rules, 2017, which may provide additional guidelines for accessibility in public spaces.
• Document the Inaccessibility:
  • Take photographs or videos of the inaccessible areas.
  • Make notes of the specific barriers you encounter, such as stairs, lack of ramps, or inadequate signage.
• Contact Relevant Authorities:
  • Reach out to the local government office responsible for building regulations and accessibility compliance.
  • You can also contact the District Disability Rehabilitation Centre (DDRC) for support in filing your complaint.
• File a Formal Complaint:
  • Prepare a written complaint detailing your experience, including the specifics of the building and the accessibility issues.
  • Include your contact information and any evidence you have gathered (photos, descriptions).
  • Submit the complaint to the relevant authorities, such as the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities or the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
• Follow Up:
  • Keep track of your complaint status and follow up with the authorities if you do not receive a response within a reasonable time frame.
  • Engage with disability rights organizations if you need assistance or advocacy.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your complaint is heard and that appropriate measures are taken to improve accessibility in public buildings in Bhubaneswar.