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

Detailed Legal Analysis

You can file a complaint regarding the inaccessibility of the new government office in Raipur under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the relevant state laws pertaining to accessible buildings.

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPWD Act) is a significant legislation that aims to ensure the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities in India. Under this Act, there are specific provisions that mandate the accessibility of public buildings.

Here are the key points relevant to your situation:

• Section 44 of the RPWD Act: This section mandates that all public buildings and facilities must be accessible to persons with disabilities. It is the responsibility of the appropriate government to ensure that public buildings are designed to be accessible.
• State Laws: Many states have their own regulations that complement the RPWD Act. You should check the Chhattisgarh State Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Rules, which may contain specific provisions regarding accessibility in public buildings.
• Filing a Complaint: If you find that the new government office is not compliant with accessibility standards, you can:
  • Contact the local authorities or the department responsible for building regulations in Raipur.
  • Submit a formal grievance or complaint. Include details such as the location of the office, specific accessibility issues, and any relevant photographs.
  • Reach out to the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, who oversees the implementation of the RPWD Act and can assist in addressing your complaint.
• Documentation: Gather any documentation related to the building's inaccessibility, including photographs, witness statements, and any prior communications with government officials.
• Legal Recourse: If your complaint does not lead to action, you may consider seeking legal recourse through the appropriate court or tribunal that handles cases related to disability rights and accessibility issues.

By taking these steps, you can advocate for your rights and promote the necessary changes to ensure accessibility in public spaces.