an online magazine from eyeway.org

issue 5 july-august 2005
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sections in this issue: by george | focus | feature | interview | perspectives | profile | headlines

Voices of People: Society

Eyeway asked some people what being a blind citizen of India means to them, with a focus on one specific aspect of life.

Harish Kotian
Computer Programmer with the Department of Information & Technology, Reserve Bank of India , Hyderabad

Voluntary help is going down, opportunities are increasing, and accessibility in public space is improving, though the speed at which all this is happening leaves a lot to be desired. A lot needs to be done as far as safe mobility for disabled people is concerned. Technology can be a helpful tool in that regard, but it's underutilised.

On the positive side, blind people can now conduct themselves with more confidence and pursue their careers in areas close to what they aim for. There remains a lot of resistance against this though, driven by old, rigid mindsets and lack of proper information. Sympathy is still the overriding sentiment, and empathy is still some way away. Those who are successful are placed on a pedestal; others are treated like doormats. There's still no middle path.

As far as liberty and freedom goes, things are getting better, and there are systems in place to fight discrimination and maltreatment against the blind. And that makes me a contented person.

Today a blind person can lead a fruitful life without help from influential contacts; hard work and integrity are good enough.

Kanchan Pamnani
Lawyer in the Bombay High Court, Mumbai

I have never thought of myself as visually impaired in connection with my citizenship or society. I am visually impaired, but that is a personal thing.

As far as being a citizen of the society is concerned, I know, accept and will do all I can to perform my duties and implement my rights as a citizen. I feel that I am less impaired than a lot of other citizens who have not only lost their sight, but their vision for society.

Related stories:
Voices of People: Education
Voices of People: Leisure and Entertainment
Voices of People: Culture
Voices of People: Media and Communications
Voices of People: Business
Voices of People: Employment
Voices of People: Sports
Voices of People: Transport
Voices of People: Being a woman
Voices of People: Relationships
Voices of People: Public Services
How has the government fared?
It's India, but is it home?