Call to ratify UN Convention on rights of persons with disabilities

They said the Convention, which was adopted by the UN General Assembly in New York on Wednesday, sets out in details the rights of physically challenged persons, including their civil and political rights.

The Action on Disability and Development (ADD) organised the discussion on the ratification and implementation of the UN Convention at the National Press Club in the city on Thursday.

Prior to the discussion, ADD Country Representative Mosharraf Hossain, at a press briefing, said the Convention is the result of a prolonged struggle to eliminate discrimination against the persons with disability.

He also called upon the authorities to ensure a supportive environment in the polling centres so that 75 lakh physically challenged voters can exercise their right to franchise in the upcoming election.

Speaking at the discussion, Monira Khatun of National Council of Disabled Women (NCDW) said there are some people who torture deaf and dumb women taking the advantage of their vulnerability.

She also demanded reserved seats for women with disability in parliament.

Prof Asif Nazrul of Dhaka University said the government would not have to face much financial involvement to implement the Convention.

"If the government ratifies the Convention, it will help get financial assistance from the donor organisations," he added.

Sultana Razia, editorial assistant of The Daily Star, said physically and mentally challenged persons often become the victims of discrimination.

She laid emphasis on political commitment, networking of civil society and sensitising the policymakers to help implement the Convention.