Kathmandu: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jagadish Kharel, has affirmed the government’s dedication to safeguarding the rights and dignity of people with disabilities. Addressing a programme at Bhrikutimandap organized by the Main Celebration Committee for the 34th International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), Minister Kharel committed to introducing disabled-friendly policies and structural cooperation to enhance accessibility in the IT sector. He announced the imminent implementation of the Guideline for Assisting People with Disabilities.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Kharel emphasized the government’s resolve to foster social justice and equality, aiming for a discrimination-free society. Prime Minister Sushila Karki extended her best wishes on the occasion, reinforcing the government’s solidarity with people with disabilities.
In addition to this, Minister Kharel, serving as the government spokesperson, mentioned that preparations for the House of Representatives (HoR) election, scheduled for March 5, 2026, are underway. The government, with its six-month mandate, is prepared to fulfill its electoral responsibilities, promoting good governance and tackling corruption.
Devi Datta Acharya, President of the National Federation of the Disabled, urged the government to focus on building disabled-friendly infrastructures and reforming policies to enhance the rights of people with disabilities.
A morning rally led by Minister Kharel preceded the programme, starting from the local open theatre and culminating at Bhrikutimandap.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities this year emphasizes ‘Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.’ Initiated by the United Nations, IDPD has been observed on December 3 annually since 1992. Despite constitutional guarantees for the rights of persons with disabilities in Nepal, stakeholders highlight ongoing challenges in practical implementation.