Punjab Govt bars night duties for visually impaired, physically challenged staff

Chandigarh: Taking a considerate step towards the welfare of differently-abled employees, the Punjab Government has decided to exempt them from night duties. Disclosing this, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister, Dr. Baljit Kaur, said that clear instructions have been issued to all departmental heads not to assign night duty to visually impaired and physically challenged employees.

Sharing further details, Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that during recent meetings with associations of differently-abled employees, it was strongly highlighted that night duty poses serious challenges for visually impaired and physically disabled staff, particularly in terms of safety and commuting.

She said this decision has been taken keeping in view humanitarian concern and the overall well-being of the employees. The Minister further stated that as per Section 3 and Section 20 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, directions have already been issued earlier to ensure a barrier-free environment in government offices so that differently-abled employees may work in a convenient and accessible atmosphere.

Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is fully committed to safeguarding the rights of differently-abled persons and providing them with all possible facilities in government service. Continuous efforts are being made to ensure their welfare and empowerment.

The Cabinet Minister added that this progressive decision will not only boost the morale of differently-abled employees but will also strengthen their sense of dignity and security in government service.