In Brief
This public interest petition addressed the implementation of disability rights in higher education institutions. The Court held that all government and government-aided institutions must reserve 5% (increased from 3%) of seats for persons with benchmark disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The Court directed the Central Government to frame accessibility rules covering physical facilities and pedagogical measures. The University Grants Commission was tasked with constituting an expert committee to assess feasibility and recommend implementation modalities within a specified timeframe. Annual compliance reports to the UGC and Bar Council of India were mandated. The judgment emphasized that proper accessibility and pedagogical support are essential for disabled students to fully participate in higher education.
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