Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lucknow (Fides Service) - A society which understands and meets the needs of citizens with a disability is a society of civil culture and solidarity. Realising this the city of Lucknow capital of Uttar Pradesh state has removed architectonic barriers and taken the necessary measures to make life for people with a disability easier, becoming the first Indian city to do so.
The city council installed ramps, reserved parking lots, handrails in public places. Lucknow, known for the splendor of its cultural patrimony is now a city to be admired for practical measures to meet the needs of disabled persons.
The city plans to adapt railway stations, markets and other public buildings and this is also thanks to an awareness campaign launched by a network of civil organisations joined by Christian communities of different confessions.
The fact is important in a state of northern India where Hindu nationalism has often led to protests against discrimination with regard to Tribals and other disadvantaged minorities. Fundamentalist Hindu groups in Uttar Pradesh oppose activity of local Christians and missionaries to promote values of equal opportunities and dignity for all people, irrespective of race, religion, social status. Fundamentalists accuse Christians of wanting to subvert Indian traditions linked with a rigid caste system recognised to be contrary to human rights and officially abolished but still in use.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 16/9/2005 righe 23 parole 256)
