Deaf Community Demands Separate Ministry, 15 Points

Hundreds of hearing and speech-impaired people staged a large protest in front of the National Press Club, Dhaka today, demanding urgent reforms and stronger inclusion in national policy.

Organised under the banner of the National Deaf Unity Council, the demonstrators presented a 15-point charter aimed at improving their quality of life and ensuring legal recognition.

Speakers at the rally said they have long faced neglect in key areas such as education, employment, healthcare, and social protection. They stressed that proper implementation of their demands would allow them to contribute more effectively to society.

Among their key demands is the inclusion of the internationally recognised term “Deaf” in the Persons with Disabilities Protection Act, along with full access to free legal assistance. They argued that many individuals in their community are denied justice due to lack of proper support.

They also called for reserved seats for persons with disabilities in the national parliament to ensure political representation, along with broader participation in policymaking and administrative roles.

Education reform was a major focus, including the establishment of a dedicated Bangla Sign Language Academy, inclusion of sign language in school curricula from primary to secondary level, and mandatory training for teachers.

On economic rights, the protesters demanded an increase in monthly allowances, interest-free loans for small entrepreneurs, and fixed quotas for persons with disabilities in both government and private sector jobs. They also proposed at least a 10 percent employment quota in private companies.

Housing issues were also highlighted, with calls for government housing allocation under national shelter programs and significant discounts on land registration for landless disabled individuals. They further demanded subsidies on electricity, water, and gas consumption.

For emergency services, they proposed a nationwide system using video calls and SMS-based communication to ensure quick access to police, fire service, and ambulance support.

Transport and education benefits were also included in their demands, such as half fare in public transport and special fee concessions for children of disabled families in educational institutions. They also urged flexible grading policies in public examinations.

Leaders of the National Deaf Unity Council warned that if the 15-point demand package is not addressed promptly, they would intensify their movement. They urged direct intervention from the highest levels of government to ensure dignity, inclusion, and equal rights for the deaf community.