THE LEGAL RIGHTS OF A DISABLED PERSON IN INDIA

The rights of persons with disabilities in India are rooted in the constitutional principles of equality, dignity, and non-discrimination. This paper examines the legal framework protecting persons with disabilities, with reference to Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. It highlights the shift from a welfare-based approach to a rights-based model aligned with India's obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The paper also discusses key judicial developments and identifies persistent challenges in the effective implementation of disability rights. It concludes by emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure meaningful inclusion and equal access to justice for persons with disabilities.