Dimapur: The Nagaland State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) has directed the Department of Youth Resources & Sports to make all sports facilities and programs in the state fully accessible to persons with disabilities (PwDs).
The order follows a Suo Motu inquiry initiated by the SCPD on February 29, 2024, regarding accessibility provisions in sports infrastructure.
A joint inspection conducted on July 5 and July 17, 2024, surveyed the Directorate of Youth Resources and Sports building and the Multidisciplinary Sports Stadium in Chümoukedima to assess their compliance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016. The inspections revealed that both facilities were not in line with accessibility standards outlined in the Act.
Respondents from the Department of Youth Resources & Sports explained that the Directorate Office Building, which is over 40 years old, could not undergo renovation due to safety concerns. However, they assured that a proposal to relocate the office is under process and that the new site will include accessibility features as per the RPwD Act and Harmonised Guidelines.
In its order, the SCPD court recommended several measures, including renovation and retrofitting of the facilities to ensure full accessibility. Barrier-free access, such as the removal or relocation of obstacles like potted plants and uneven surfaces, is to be implemented.
Accessible toilets are to be constructed or retrofitted with necessary fixtures like grab bars and railings. Reserved parking spaces must be provided, and clear signage should be installed throughout the facilities. Additionally, emergency evacuation plans must be developed to ensure the safety of persons with disabilities during emergencies.
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The court also emphasised the need to ensure all future construction of stadiums and offices follows the latest accessibility guidelines.
The Department of Youth Resources & Sports has been given three months to implement the recommendations and submit an Action Taken Report to the SCPD court.
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