PFB submits memorandum to CM, seeks action on issues of visually impaired
Ferozepur, July 4, 2025: The Progressive Federation for the Blinds (PFB), Punjab Unit, expressed concern over the continued neglect of issues by the government, being faced by visually impaired persons, in the state. In a detailed memorandum submitted to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Anil Gupta, General Secretary of the Federation, highlighted the persistent challenges in employment, education, promotions, and welfare schemes.
The memorandum points out that since 2021, no recruitment drives have been conducted for visually impaired individuals in government jobs, with multiple departments showing apathy towards job reservations mandated under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016. Promotion cases have reportedly been pending for over a decade in several departments, including higher education and deputy commissioners’ offices.
The Federation also raised concerns over the lack of government schools beyond Class 10 for visually impaired students and the poor condition of the existing institution in Ludhiana. Issues regarding delayed stipends, outdated transport allowances, non-acceptance of UDID cards by many departments, and lack of inter-departmental coordination were also mentioned.
The Federation also pointed out for ignoring the multiple Supreme Court judgments and Central Government directives regarding timely promotions under reservation. Gupta said that despite repeated appeals since 2022, no meeting has been granted to discuss all these issues across the table.
Calling for urgent action, Gupta said, “If their grievances remain unresolved, the Federation may resort to peaceful protests, rallies, or hunger strikes”. He urged the government to hold immediate discussions to resolve these long-pending issues.