The Island
The Supreme Court yesterday ordered that physically disabled persons should be granted reasonable access to all public buildings, to be constructed in the future.
The declaration said that the Court ordered that all new public buildings should provide reasonable access to those who are physically handicapped in accordance with the regulations in force. Failure to do so should attract punitive repercussions, as set out in the law.
Dr. A. C. S. Perera, Chartered Chemist, had filed a fundamental rights violation application claiming that disabled persons are being unequally treated when they needed to reach certain public buildings. He requested the Court to remedy this situation.
Dr. Ajith Perera, informed Court that he would be satisfied if the Court made order, with regard to all buildings constructed in future.
The Court yesterday said that it recognizes that in terms of the Protection of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act No: 29 of 1996, as amended and the regulations made there under, no person should be discriminated on the ground of disability, and their mobility restricted in a manner which precludes or impedes them from gaining reasonable physical access to public buildings and facilities, provided within such buildings, especially toilet facilities.
The first respondent cited in the petition is the Minister of Social Welfare.
State Counsel N. Vignaswaran appeared for the respondent State officials.
Dr. Ajith Perera, appeared for himself.
The Bench comprised, the Chief Justice de Silva, Justice Saleem Marsoof and Justice S. I. Imam.