English Project: Challenges and Societal Attitudes Towards
Physically Challenged Individuals
Introduction:
People with physical disabilities face a multitude of challenges that affect their daily
lives, work, and interactions with others. Beyond their personal struggles, societal
attitudes play a significant role in shaping their experiences. In this project, I
interviewed a physically challenged individual to understand their perspective on the
challenges they face and how society treats them. Additionally, I researched the
history of physically challenged people in India over different centuries and how their
living conditions evolved.
1. Interview with a Physically Challenged Person
Name of Interviewee: Ramesh Kumar
Age: 32
Disability: Polio survivor; left leg paralysis since childhood
Occupation: Freelance graphic designer
Ramesh Kumar's Story:
Ramesh Kumar contracted polio when he was just 2 years old, leaving his left leg
paralyzed. Despite his condition, he pursued education and developed skills in graphic
design, which allowed him to work from home as a freelancer. His journey has been
one of perseverance, determination, and learning to overcome both physical and
societal obstacles.
Challenges Faced Due to Physical Disability:
1.
Mobility: Ramesh shared that mobility remains one of his biggest challenges.
Public infrastructure, especially in rural areas, is not built to accommodate
people with disabilities. "When I visit public places, I often find that ramps are
either absent or poorly constructed," he mentioned. He also spoke about the
lack of accessible public transportation. "Auto drivers refuse to take me
sometimes because they think I will take longer to get in or out of the vehicle."
2.
3.
Employment: Ramesh expressed concerns about job opportunities for
disabled individuals. "In my field, I’m fortunate that I can work from home as
a freelancer. But many people with disabilities do not get job opportunities,
not because they lack skill, but because employers fear they will need special
accommodations."
4.
5.
Social Isolation: "Many people see us as 'different,' and this makes it difficult
to form close friendships. In school, classmates would either pity me or avoid
me because they didn't know how to interact with someone with a disability,"
Ramesh shared. He mentioned that society often emphasizes pity, which can
create a barrier for disabled individuals who want to be treated equally.
6.
7.
Self-Confidence: Ramesh admitted that for years he struggled with self-
confidence, primarily due to the way people looked at him. "I felt like
everyone was watching my every move, and this made me extremely self-
conscious." However, he mentioned that through counseling and developing
his career, he was able to regain his confidence over time.
8.
Society’s Attitude Towards Disabled Individuals:
According to Ramesh, society’s attitude towards people with disabilities has
improved, but there is still a long way to go. He acknowledged that government
initiatives have created awareness, but ignorance and prejudice still exist at many
levels.
Prejudice: He shared that people often make incorrect assumptions about his
abilities. "Many assume that because I have a disability, I am incapable of
doing basic tasks like using a computer or working on projects."
Pity Over Respect: He also observed that society tends to pity people with
disabilities rather than treat them with respect. "Instead of offering help with
dignity, many people look at me with sorrow as if my life is less valuable."
Support Systems: On a positive note, Ramesh appreciated the support from
disability rights groups and NGOs. "These organizations have been my biggest
advocates, helping me navigate the challenges of living with a disability and
advocating for changes in laws."
Conclusion of the Interview:
Ramesh’s story highlights both the personal struggles faced by physically challenged
individuals and the societal barriers they encounter. His experiences reflect the need
for better infrastructure, equal employment opportunities, and more inclusive attitudes
in society.
2. Research on the Conditions of Physically Challenged People
in India Through the Centuries
Ancient India (2000 BCE - 1000 CE):
In ancient India, people with physical disabilities were often marginalized. There
were very few records of disabled individuals living independently or contributing to
society. Disability was largely viewed as a curse or punishment from the gods for sins
committed in a past life. Such beliefs often isolated disabled individuals from society.
Religious Influence: In Hindu texts, disability is sometimes associated with
karma. This idea placed disabled individuals in a lower social status,
contributing to their exclusion.
Support Systems: There were no formal support systems or care for disabled
individuals in ancient India. Families were expected to care for their disabled
members, but this was not always possible, leaving many to fend for
themselves.
Medieval India (1000 CE - 1700 CE):
During the medieval period, the condition of disabled individuals did not improve
significantly. Many people with disabilities remained dependent on their families or
charity for survival. However, some rulers, especially during the Mughal period, were
known to employ disabled individuals in various roles.
Employment: Some disabled individuals were employed in royal courts. For
example, blind poets or musicians were valued for their artistic contributions.
Charity: Religious institutions and wealthy individuals sometimes provided
alms to disabled beggars, but there were no structured systems in place to
ensure their well-being.
Colonial India (1700 CE - 1947 CE):
During British colonial rule, there was a slight shift in societal attitudes towards
disabled individuals. The British introduced Western medical practices and
institutions that catered to disabled individuals, but these were mostly for British
citizens or the elite class.
Institutions for Disabled Individuals: Some hospitals and care homes for
disabled individuals were established, but they were not widely accessible.
These institutions mainly served individuals from wealthier backgrounds or
colonial families.
Social Attitudes: Society continued to view disability as a personal tragedy or
curse. However, some British officials and missionaries worked towards
improving the conditions of disabled individuals by advocating for their
inclusion in certain occupations.
Post-Independence India (1947 CE - Present):
After India gained independence, there was a slow but steady improvement in the
lives of physically challenged individuals. The government began enacting policies
and laws to promote the rights of disabled people.
Legislation: The Persons with Disabilities Act of 1995 was a landmark law
that aimed to promote and ensure equality for people with disabilities. The
Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 further strengthened this by
mandating accessibility in public spaces, employment opportunities, and
education for disabled individuals.
Education and Employment: Schools for disabled children have been
established, and inclusive education has become a priority in modern times.
Employment opportunities for disabled individuals have also improved,
although challenges remain.
Social Attitudes: Over time, awareness campaigns and advocacy by NGOs
have changed societal perceptions. People with disabilities are increasingly
being seen as capable individuals who deserve equal rights and opportunities.
Conclusion:
The conditions of physically challenged individuals in India have seen significant
changes across centuries. From being viewed as cursed or burdensome in ancient and
medieval times, society has gradually evolved to embrace inclusion and equal rights
for disabled individuals in the modern era. However, despite advancements in
legislation and accessibility, challenges still exist. The journey towards a more
inclusive society continues.
Bibliography:
1. Interview with Ramesh Kumar, October 2024
2. “History of Disability in India: Ancient and Medieval Periods.” [Source]
3. “The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.” Ministry of Law and Justice, Government
of India.
4. Textbook: "On the Face of It" – Class 12 English Literature
