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The Supreme Court of India has delivered a landmark judgment that dismantles barriers for individuals with disabilities seeking admission to educational institutions. The court ruled that a quantified disability alone will not disqualify a candidate from being considered for admission. Instead, the decision rests with the Disability Assessment Board, which will determine if the disability hinders the candidate's ability to pursue the desired course of study.
This ruling arose from the case of a student with a 45% speech and language disability who was denied admission to an MBBS program despite clearing the NEET exam. Existing regulations barred individuals with a disability exceeding 40% from pursuing medical studies. The Supreme Court, however, recognized the individual's potential and allowed admission after a medical board confirmed the disability would not impede their medical studies.
The court emphasized the need for an inclusive approach towards persons with disabilities, highlighting the achievements of prominent individuals who overcame challenges to excel in their chosen fields. They cited examples like Sudha Chandran, a renowned Bharatanatyam dancer, Arunima Sinha, who conquered Mount Everest, and Srikanth Bolla, a successful entrepreneur. These inspiring figures exemplify the potential of individuals with disabilities when given the opportunity to reach their full potential.
The court's verdict underscores the constitutional mandate to ensure access to education for all, including individuals with disabilities. It encourages institutions to prioritize reasonable accommodation and inclusivity instead of focusing on barriers and disqualifications. This judgment is a significant step towards creating a more equitable and inclusive educational landscape for all.
The judgment goes beyond merely focusing on the specific case at hand. It sets a precedent for future cases and offers a framework for institutions to consider applications from individuals with disabilities in a more nuanced and compassionate way. It reinforces the idea that disability should not define an individual's potential, and that everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue their educational goals.
Source: Admission can't be denied on disability ground if it doesn’t come in the way of pursuing studies: SC