DRC - Symposium (Hybrid) On Gender Justice: The Twin Track Disability Rights Perspective
Event Date: 22nd February 2024
The Gender Justice and Disability Rights Symposium held by Galgotias University's Disability Rights Clinic (DRC) on April 6, 2024, was a pivotal event focusing on the intertwined issues of gender justice and disability rights. Through the lens of the "Twin-Track" approach, the symposium delved into the dual discrimination faced by women and girls with disabilities, recognizing the compounding effects of both gender and disability-based prejudice. It underscored the urgent need for targeted interventions and policies to address the unique challenges confronted by this marginalized demographic.
Distinguished speakers, including Prof. (Dr.) Naresh Kumar Vats, the Dean School of Law, emphasized the importance of equality and dignity for individuals with disabilities. Dr. Vats highlighted the necessity for inclusive infrastructure and support systems to facilitate the full participation of individuals with disabilities in society. He showcased examples of individuals with diverse abilities excelling without assistance, underscoring the significance of creating environments that provide reasonable accommodation.
Prof. (Dr.) Renu Luthra echoed these sentiments, emphasizing empathy, sensitivity, and inclusivity in addressing the intersectionality of gender and disability rights. She commended the younger generation's growing awareness and acceptance of diversity while expressing optimism about India's progress in promoting equality. Dr. Luthra underscored the ongoing need for advocacy and collective action to fulfill the promise of equality outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The symposium also featured keynote addresses by notable figures such as Adv. Raghenth Basant, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India, who shed light on the visible discrimination in judicial decisions due to the lack of sensitization towards disability rights perspectives. Ms. Anna Clements provided insights into the intersection of gender-based violence and disability, emphasizing societal barriers and attitudes as primary contributors to vulnerability.
The event culminated in the declaration of the Disability Rights Clinic's Constitution preamble, emphasizing the commitment to eradicating discrimination, promoting awareness, and condemning any form of discrimination based on disability. Dr. Shivani Gupta, Senior Manager of Inclusive Design Global Disability Innovation Hub, Delhi, further highlighted the societal barriers faced by people with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and reasonable accommodation.
Subsequent sessions addressed the cultural construction of gender and disability, the legal perspective on sexuality and disability constructs, and the patriarchal nature of the disability rights movement in India. Prof. (Dr.) Ram Niwas underscored the significance of inclusive language in legal frameworks to promote gender equality and ensure the inclusion of women with disabilities.
The symposium concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Smitha Nizar, Associate Dean, School of Law, reaffirming the commitment to achieving equality for people with disabilities and the university's dedication to promoting inclusivity and equality. Overall, the symposium served as a pivotal platform for raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and empowering women and girls with disabilities to claim their rights and participate fully in society, aligning with the university's goal of achieving Reduced Inequality as per SDG-10.
Mentor Name – Dr. Smitha Nizar, Associate Dean, School of Law
Department Name – Disability Rights Clinic, School of Law, Galgotias University
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