GUWAHATI: The Supreme Court of India has taken significant steps toward expanding opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in the medical field on Tuesday, November 5. The Court has called for implementing inclusive standards in medical admissions, emphasising that PwDs should be viewed not through sympathy but as integral members of society.
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A bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, with Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, permitted a candidate with muscular dystrophy to join the ongoing NEET-UG 2024 counselling, stressing that PwDs must be given an equal chance to pursue medical careers.
The ruling addresses current barriers PwDs face in medical admissions, particularly those disqualified based on physical criteria. It also seeks to reshape the approach to disability assessment by recommending functional competency evaluations over rigid benchmarks. This shift aims to assess a candidate's specific abilities within the context of their desired medical programme, aligning with international disability rights standards.
Chief Justice Chandrachud underlined the importance of diversity within healthcare, asserting that inclusive representation could improve healthcare delivery, especially for PwDs. “A diverse workforce enhances the quality of care and ensures healthcare is sensitive and responsive to all,” the court noted, adding that practitioners with disabilities bring valuable lived experiences, enriching the healthcare system.
The court also criticised existing guidelines that hinder PwDs from entering medical fields, urging reform. It highlighted the need for "barrier-free" healthcare, mandated under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, asserting that access to medical education and practice for PwDs is essential for national progress.
In further recommendations, the court proposed renaming Disability Assessment Boards as "Ability Assessment Boards," encouraging the inclusion of medical professionals with disabilities on these panels, and providing accessibility guidance for NEET aspirants. Additionally, it instructed that medical colleges establish "Enabling Units" as resource centres for students with disabilities. The Court directed the National Medical Commission to draft fresh guidelines that uphold inclusivity in line with constitutional guarantees.
