The Fight for Accessibility in Sudurpashchim Province

For years, persons with disabilities in Sudurpashchim Province, Nepal, struggled to access government services due to the absence of inclusive infrastructure. The Ministry of Social Development, despite being a crucial institution, lacked a standard-accessible ramp, making it difficult for people with mobility impairments to receive services independently. However, through persistent advocacy, protests, and negotiations led by the National Federation of the Disabled Nepal (NFDN) – Sudurpashchim Province, the government finally constructed an accessible ramp, marking a significant victory in the fight for disability rights.

A Long Struggle for Accessibility

The movement for accessibility did not happen overnight. For years, the voices of persons with disabilities remained unheard despite repeated demands. Nepal’s Accessibility Guidelines for Physical Structures and Communication Services for Persons with Disabilities (2069 BS) had set clear standards, yet the government failed to implement them.

 

NFDN Sudurpashchim Province continued to advocate for disability-friendly infrastructure, engaging in discussions with local and provincial governments. Despite numerous appeals, the Ministry of Social Development failed to make the necessary changes, forcing disability rights activists to take a more direct approach.

Rising Action: Mobilizing for Change

Frustrated with the lack of response, NFDN Sudurpashchim Province, under “Include Us” project, provided accessibility training to ministry engineers on September 8, 2022. However, even after these training sessions, no action was taken to build a standard-accessible ramp.

As a result, on June 19, 2023 (Asar 5, 2080 BS), under the leadership of former NFDN Sudurpashchim Province President Bhim Bahadur Shah, disability rights activists formed the Disability Rights Promotion Committee. They issued a seven-point demand, warning of protests if their demands were ignored within a week.

When the government remained silent, over 120 persons with disabilities took to the streets on June 27, 2023 (Asar 12, 2080 BS). The protest included rallies, sit-ins, symbolic demolitions of non-compliant structures, and even a relay hunger strike.

Turning Point: Government Forced to Act

On June 30, 2023 (Asar 18, 2080 BS), after seven days of intense protests, Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah personally addressed the demonstrators and acknowledged their demands. Later that day, the Ministry of Social Development called for negotiations.

An 11-member negotiation team, including representatives from NFDN participated in the discussions. The government agreed to fulfill all the demands and pledged NPR 50 million for accessibility-related infrastructure. Additionally, NPR 160 million was allocated for disability-focused programs in the fiscal year 2080/81 BS.

A Landmark Achievement

Within two days of the agreement, a new, standard-accessible ramp was constructed at the Ministry of Social Development, allowing persons with disabilities to access services independently. This marked the successful culmination of over a year-long struggle.

Impact and Future Prospects

This victory extends beyond just one building. Other government offices in Sudurpashchim Province have taken notice, increasing their focus on accessibility. The movement has also played a crucial role in shifting societal attitudes toward persons with disabilities.

While there were delays in budget allocation, the disability rights movement remains optimistic. The protests have ensured that disability-inclusive development remains a priority in the province, paving the way for future advocacy efforts.

The Power of Collective Action

The success of this campaign proves that organized advocacy and persistent pressure can bring about real change. Persons with disabilities in Sudurpashchim Province have not only secured better infrastructure but have also set a powerful precedent for future disability rights movements across Nepal.

This victory is a testament to resilience, solidarity, and the strong fight for inclusion. The journey does not end here—there is still much work to be done, but the foundation for a more accessible future has been laid.