Autistic children have a right to be heard: Gov

Governor of Nagaland, Dr. Ashwani Kumar, today said that society and government are taking measures to ensure that the “differently-abled” are not left alone to face discrimination, isolation and abuse.

Speaking at the World Autism Awareness Day cum inauguration of a multi-purpose hall of Jo Foundation Inclusive Play School here, Dr. Kumar said the annual observance of World Autism Day enables us to join “autistic people and their beloved ones” to share our concern for their welfare.
“We have realized the need to educate ourselves and treat such people with love and understanding,” he said.

Stating that so far medical science has failed to find the exact cause and cure for this complex disorder, he said, “We need to put in more money, time and effort to find a medical solution to this problem.” He also stated it is our duty to guarantee physical, economic and social security to all such people.
“The government is with you, the whole society is with you and all of us are with you,” he said.

Since the “differently-abled” are guaranteed equal social, economic and political rights as per our Constitution, he said, it is our duty to ensure that they avail of all services granted to them.

He also stressed on the need to take steps to enforce their right to inherit property and safeguard their future.

“It is unfortunate and sad to notice that till date the country is yet to formulate a concrete policy to address this group of people having autistic symptoms. It is indeed sad that there is still no strong supporting system in the country to help this group of children,” said Vipralhou Kesiezie, director SCERT Nagaland Kohima.

Challenging the gathering to extend support to autistic children, he said, “Let us show that we care for them and love them. Autistic children have a right to be heard and to be loved.”

‘Enable’ Kohima chairperson, Neikule Doulo, said that Enable was formed in 2007. Its programmes that focus on awareness at schools, Sunday schools and capacity building for parents and stakeholders, to take up the cause of disability, has yielded dividends and expressed pride at being associated with Daniel and Dr. Asunu since the inception of Jo Foundation.

She was appreciative that the duo have come up with a place like Jo Foundation where not just inclusion but remediation services are being provided, adding that it has physiotherapy and special education besides the regular curriculum.

“We still need services of speech therapists, more occupational therapists, diagnostic and testing services as well,” Doulo said.

Earlier, State commissioner for disabilities Dr. Atha Vizol and (Rtd) director of economics & statistics Dr. N. Thong also spoke on the occasion.
The function was chaired by Jo Foundation chairman, Daniel Thong Seb, while Life Ministries director, Colo Mero, proposed the vote of thanks.