Queency Jain-
The Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to ensure that no new buildings are constructed within the State without ensuring that proper facilities including toilets are made available for the differently-abled persons.
In furtherance to this, the Court further stated that the Public Works Department and its officials must adhere to the governing statute and the National Building Code (BMC) to ensure that the instructions are followed without any exception.
The directions came after the Court was hearing a PIL filed by M Karpagam seeking to implement the provisions of the Persons with Disabilities (Equal opportunities, protection of rights and full participation) Act in the State.
Though the Counsel on the behalf of the State did submit its report in furtherance of the Plea, the Court observed that the submission did not have adequate information to answer that whether the person with disabilities can access the public buildings or not.
Observing the report to be insufficient, the Court listed the matter for further hearing after 2 months with detailed submissions.
The matter is listed for further hearing on 13 September.