A legal awareness program was held at Zilla Parishad High School (Boys) in Vattem village on March 24, 2025. This event was organized under the direction of the District Legal Services Authority, Nagarkurnool, following the orders of the State High Court. The program aimed to educate people about the NALSA Legal Services Scheme for Persons with Mental Illness and Intellectual Disabilities.
Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel, ACP Sriram Arya, attended as the chief guest and addressed the gathering. He highlighted the responsibility of central, state, and local governments to ensure that persons with disabilities (PwDs) receive their rights and necessary support. He stressed the importance of creating an inclusive environment where their personal freedom is protected.
ACP Sriram Arya also warned that it is illegal to subject persons with disabilities to violence, cruelty, unauthorized research, assault, threats, denial of food, or sexual harassment. Such offenses could lead to imprisonment for up to five years and fines ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹5 lakh. He emphasized that PwDs should not be separated from their families without valid reasons and that they have equal voting rights.
He further stated that educational institutions must provide fair admission opportunities and ensure non-discriminatory environments. Schools should have accessible infrastructure, and teachers trained in sign language and Braille should be appointed. Additionally, he spoke about the need for adult education, vocational training, self-employment support, and interest-free loans for PwDs.
To encourage participation, ACP Sriram Arya suggested organizing sports events for persons with disabilities. He also informed the attendees that those facing issues or rights violations can seek help by calling toll-free numbers—14416 for protection and 15100 for free legal advice.
The event was attended by School Principal Gopal Rao, teachers, para-legal volunteer N. Srinivasulu, students, and media representatives.
