CHENNAI: Hand in hand, differently-abled people on Thursday made it known on the Marina Beach with a Human Chain that there has to be more involvement and understanding on the part of a society that often chooses to either deal in platitudes or waltz by. The Human Chain on the theme “Maathi Yosi” (think differently) was organised by two NGOs, Disability Rights Alliance and Aide et Action, to create awareness on the need for new disability laws and rights of persons living with disability.
Speaking on the occasion, P Simmachandran, general secretary, Federation of Tamil Nadu Physically Handicapped Association, said, “Politicians in Tamil Nadu, enthusiastically send their congratulatory messages to film artistes, but when it comes to the differently-abled, they are least bothered. This is evident from the fact there is there is no message or announcement from most of the politicians, except Vijayakanth of the DMDK, on the eve of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.” Apart from differently-abled, nearly 1,000 volunteers from various NGOs, and college students participated holding placards that read: “Nothing about us without us”; “No man is above the law and no man is below it”; “I can’t talk but I still have lots to say” and “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference”.
Simmachandran said the benefits of many welfare schemes for the differentlyabled did not reach them. “Government servants should understand that many of us cannot travel long distances; so it is imperative for them to reach us, especially in rural areas,” he said.
K Sivagami, regional manager, Aide et Action, said it was high time that differently- abled got equal opportunities.