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

Detailed Legal Analysis

You can certainly file a complaint under the relevant provisions of the state accessible buildings law if the new government office in Bokaro is not wheelchair accessible. The rights of persons with disabilities to access public buildings are protected under various laws in India.

In India, the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPWD Act) mandates that all public buildings must be accessible to persons with disabilities. Here are some key points regarding your rights and the legal framework:

• Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016:
  • Section 44 of the RPWD Act states that all establishments must ensure accessibility to persons with disabilities.
  • Section 45 emphasizes the need for the government to ensure that public buildings are accessible to persons with disabilities.
• State Accessibility Laws:
  • Many states have enacted their own accessibility laws in alignment with the RPWD Act. You should check the specific provisions applicable in Jharkhand.
• Complaints Mechanism:
  • You may file a complaint with the local municipal authority or the government department responsible for building regulations in Bokaro.
  • It is advisable to document the inaccessibility issues, including photographs and descriptions of the barriers you face.
  • Consider contacting local disability rights organizations for assistance in filing your complaint.
• Further Legal Recourse:
  • If your complaint is not addressed satisfactorily, you may escalate the matter to the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
  • You also have the option of approaching the High Court under Article 226 of the Constitution for enforcing your fundamental rights, particularly the right to equality and non-discrimination.

In summary, you have a legal basis to lodge a complaint regarding the inaccessibility of the new government office in Bokaro under the RPWD Act and relevant state laws. Ensuring that public spaces are accessible to all is a fundamental right, and you should pursue your complaint to ensure compliance with these laws.