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

Detailed Legal Analysis

You can indeed file a complaint regarding the inaccessibility of the new government office in Indore under the relevant state laws that promote accessibility for persons with disabilities.

In India, the rights of persons with disabilities are protected under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPwD Act). This Act mandates that all public buildings, including government offices, must be accessible to persons with disabilities. The specific provisions regarding accessibility can be found in:

• Section 40: This section outlines the obligation of public authorities to ensure accessibility to their buildings.
• Section 44: This section mandates that appropriate measures must be taken to ensure accessibility in public transport and public buildings.

Additionally, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has developed the Harmonized Guidelines and Space Standards for Barrier-Free Built Environment for Persons with Disabilities and Elderly Persons, which serve as a framework for ensuring that buildings are accessible.

In the state of Madhya Pradesh, the Madhya Pradesh Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Rules, 1996 also support the rights stipulated in the RPwD Act and emphasize the need for accessibility in public infrastructure.

To lodge a complaint regarding the inaccessibility of the new government office, you may follow these steps:

• Document the Issue: Take photographs and write a detailed description of the accessibility barriers you encountered.
• Identify the Appropriate Authority: Determine the local government authority or the office responsible for the building in question.
• Compose a Formal Complaint: Draft a complaint letter outlining your concerns, referencing the relevant laws and guidelines.
• Submit the Complaint: Submit the complaint to the identified authority, either in person or through official email or postal service.
• Follow Up: After submission, follow up with the authorities to ensure your complaint is being addressed.

By taking these steps, you can assert your rights and help promote a more inclusive environment in public spaces in Indore.