The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

Speakers at a discussion yesterday demanded implementation of United Nations Charter of disabled persons rights, formulation of policy in consultation with representatives of the disabled and creating friendly environment for them to participate in the elections without any constraint.

The discussion on "United Nations Charter of Disabled Persons Rights: Dignity and Justice for All" to mark the 17th International Day of Persons with

Disability at Rabindra Sarobar of Dhanmondi in the city.

Social Welfare Ministry, Samajseba Adidaftar, Jatiya Protibandi Unnayan Foundation, Jatiya Samajkallayan Parishad and Jatiya Protibandi Forum jointly organised the discussion.

Vice President of Jatiya Protibandi Unnayan Foundation Farida Yeasmin presided over the function, Secretary of Social Welfare Ministry Dewan Zakir Hossain attended as chief guest.

The speakers called upon the people to create opportunities for disabled persons to develop their talents.

They demanded of the government to increase the allocation for the disabled persons in the national budget.

They mentioned that there are around 140000 disabled persons in the country.

Earlier, colourful rally was brought out from Dhanmondi. Disabled persons, officials, NGO representatives took part the rally carrying different placards and festoons.

Chairperson of Jatiya Protibandi Forum AHM Numan Khan delivered the welcome speech, It was attended, among others, by Director General of Samajseba Adidaftar Dr Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury, Managing

Director of Jatiya Protibandi Unnayan Foundation Mansur Ahmed Chowdhury, Joint Secretary of Social Welfare Ministry BM Abdus Sattar and Director (Finance and Administration) of Samajseba Adidaftar Kamal Uddin Bhuiyan as special guests.

A cultural function was held after the discussion.