Goemkarponn Desk
PANAJI:The recent incident at Canara bank, Porvorim branch where the petitioner—a father of a person with a disability—faced humiliation and discrimination by the incumbent bank manager, highlights the urgent need to protect the rights and dignity of vulnerable individuals. The Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities recognises its critical role in upholding justice for all, especially PwD’s in Goa.
The court order issued by the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities on July 24, 2024 goes beyond addressing immediate injustice and aims to foster a culture of empathy, respect and inclusion within the public sphere.
The Directives issued to the respondent, includes Volunteering at Special schools to cultivate empathy, understanding and respect for individuals with disabilities. Besides, the incumbent manager is also required to tender a written Public Apology that must be prominently displayed within the bank premises, acknowledging the wrong doing and reaffirming the commitment to respectful and inclusive conduct.
The Commission also directs Incorporating Sensitivity and Awareness Training for all bank employees within six months in collaboration with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and to equip the bank staff to prevent future incidents and create a more inclusive banking environment.
State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Mr. Guruprasad Pawaskar, stated that “The rights and dignity of persons with disabilities are non-negotiable, and it is the duty of every individual to uphold these values. This order goes beyond addressing the immediate incident; it emphasizes the critical need to create inclusive environments where individuals with disabilities and their caregivers are treated with respect and dignity.”
He added, “By addressing the complainant’s experience and taking proactive measures to prevent future incidents, this order contributes to building a more equitable and compassionate society. It seeks to redress the humiliation and discrimination faced by the complainant. Together, we are taking a significant step toward a society where the rights and dignity of every individual are upheld.”
While the Office of the State commission will remain vigilant in monitoring the implementation of this order, the bank has to submit a compliance report within three months.
