DRG Presents Demands

1) That the Indian Government recognises the fact that Sign Language is the language of Deaf people. (This is a fact already recognised by most civilised countries in the world today) Without Sign Language, the Deaf have no language - therefore are incapable of communicating. Deaf people cannot integrate or co-operate with any government institution (be it hospitals, police, or courts) without a means of communication.

2) That suitable laws be passed by Parliament and implemented without delay to ensure that the Deaf and all handicapped persons are:

- Fairly treated at the time of arrest
- Given fair treatment during their trial
- The above two points include sign language interpreters for the Deaf.

A Sign Language Interpreter is to be available and present by law, for all Deaf people who appear in court. Failure to provide a qualified Interpreter invalidates the case against the Deaf person.

3) Are properly treated while incarcerated, otherwise they are to be automatically granted bail for whatever offence they are charged with.

Related to the above issues, the Deaf community urgently:

4) Demand that a massive public awareness campaign focusing specifically on the Deaf, is carried out soon - funded by the government. What is being done in this area up to now is simply not enough.

5) Demand that the government pass legislation, implement and finance the proper training and provision of professional full time sign language interpreters (treated on par as with teachers) in every district of India. This demand to be made in consultation with Deaf leaders.

6) Demand that the PWD (Persons With Disabilities) Act of 1995 is to be reviewed in consultation with Deaf leaders and the Disability Rights Group. Besides other things, the rights of Deaf people is inadequately mentioned by the present act of 1995. The Act is to be suitable modified and ratified by Parliament.

7) Demand that, once and for all, the word 'Dumb' is dropped from the expression 'Deaf and Dumb' - an expression used by most government institutions today.
Deaf people are not 'Dumb' - use of this word causes hurt and insult - moreover, it is not a civilised or 'socially educated' way in which to describe someone.
A public information campaign, notice to press council, and/or notice to all government establishments are some ways to go about the above point, and to educate government officials about Deaf issues.

Only when the above 7 demands are met, can we be proud to be called Indians.