The Election Commission has asked political parties not to use derogatory words for people with disabilities in public discourse, saying the usage of such words in a speech by politicians and candidates can be interpreted as an afford to such people.
In an advisory issued to parties on Wednesday, the poll panel stated that the very foundation of democracy lies in the representation of all communities in the electoral process.
The EC said parties and their representatives shouldn’t use disability or terms referring to disability of PwDs in the context of “human incapacity” and should avoid comments that may be offensive to certain stereotypes. It added that any use of such language would attract punishments under the RPD Act.
Parities were also asked to ensure that all campaign materials, including speeches by leaders and social media posts, undergo an internal review process to find and correct any ableist, offensive, or discriminatory language.
The guideline says “All political parties should ensure and should declare on their website that they will use disability and gender sensitive language and etiquette as well as respect inherent human equality, equity, dignity and autonomy…All political parties shall make their public speeches/campaigns/ activities/ events accessible for all citizens,”
Political parties were also asked to give proper training to their workers and appoint a nodal authority to receive complaints from PwD regarding the use of ableist language. EC Said, “Political parties may endeavor to include more PwDs at levels such as members and party workers to shed the attitudinal barrier of the party and public and provide equal opportunities,”
The EC’s guidelines come after some activists raised concerns over the use of references to disability by political leaders to attack opponents during campaigns. A collective of disability rights groups had written to ECI on October 26 this year, asking DC to take action on the matter.
