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

Detailed Legal Analysis

You can definitely file a complaint regarding the inaccessibility of the new government office in Thrissur under the relevant laws concerning accessible buildings in India.

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPwD Act) mandates accessibility in public buildings and spaces. Specifically, it is crucial to understand the following key provisions and steps:

• Legal Framework:
  • The RPwD Act, 2016 aims to uphold the rights of persons with disabilities and includes provisions for accessibility.
  • Section 40 of the RPwD Act specifically requires the government to ensure that all public buildings are made accessible to persons with disabilities.
• State Accessibility Laws:
  • Many states, including Kerala, have enacted their own laws and guidelines to support the provisions of the RPwD Act.
  • Kerala has the Kerala State Policy for Persons with Disabilities, which outlines the commitment of the state towards creating an inclusive environment.
• Filing a Complaint:
  • Document the accessibility issues faced at the government office, including photographs and descriptions.
  • Contact the office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities or the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in Kerala.
  • Submit a formal complaint detailing the accessibility issues, citing the relevant sections of the RPwD Act and the state policy.
  • You can also approach local NGOs or advocacy groups for assistance in filing your complaint.
• Follow-Up:
  • Keep a record of your complaint submission and any responses received from the authorities.
  • Engage in follow-up communications to ensure that your complaint is being addressed.

By taking these steps, you can advocate for your rights and contribute to the effort to make public spaces more accessible for individuals with disabilities in India.