Dhaka District Commissioner Farida Khanam called for equal opportunities and rights at every level of society so that disability does not obstruct anyone’s dreams, potential or progress. She made the appeal on Tuesday as chief guest at a discussion meeting organized by stakeholder groups of persons with disabilities at the Dhaka district administration conference room.

Khanam said development is meaningful and sustainable only when its benefits reach every person in society. Persons with disabilities are not a separate part of society, she said, but citizens, relatives and an inseparable part of the development journey. They need rights rather than charity, equal opportunity rather than sympathy, and dignity rather than pity, she added.

She emphasized ensuring access to education, healthcare, employment, social security and participation in all spheres. Decisions concerning persons with disabilities should be made with them, she said, while stressing effective implementation of constitutional, legal and policy provisions. Khanam also called for practical measures to ensure universal accessibility in government offices, educational institutions, hospitals, public transport, footpaths, recreational venues and other public facilities.