Officials inspecting the Multidisciplinary Sports Stadium in Chümoukedima for accessibility standards.
Kohima, September 17 (MExN): The State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) has directed the Department of Youth Resources and Sports to enhance accessibility in all sports facilities across Nagaland. This order follows a Suo Motu inquiry served to the department on February 29, 2024, regarding the implementation of accessibility provisions under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act.
Joint inspections of the Directorate of Youth Resources and Sports building and the Multidisciplinary Sports Stadium in Chümoukedima were conducted on July 5 and July 17, 2024. The inspections revealed accessibility gaps in both facilities. The Directorate Office Building, which is over 40 years old, was reported to be unsuitable for renovation due to safety concerns, with the department stating that plans are underway to relocate the office to a new site where accessibility features will be implemented.
The SCPD Court issued several recommendations, including retrofitting and renovating existing sports facilities to ensure full inclusion for persons with disabilities. Specific changes include removing obstacles like potted plants, improving ramp access, completing an accessible toilet, and providing reserved parking spaces at both the Directorate Office and the Stadium. The Court also emphasized the need for accessible signage, barrier-free pathways, and compliance with the Harmonized Guidelines in future construction.
Additionally, the SCPD has mandated that all new sports stadiums and office buildings must adhere to updated accessibility standards. An action plan must be created to retrofit all existing facilities, with a focus on the promotion and inclusion of athletes with disabilities under the Khelo India Scheme. The department has been given three months to comply with these recommendations and submit an Action Taken Report to the SCPD Court.
