On World Disability Day, members of the Jammu Kashmir Handicapped Association staged a protest at Press Enclave Srinagar, demanding the government address long-pending issues related to social security, financial relief, and legal safeguards for people with disabilities.

Protestors carried banners and placards highlighting neglect and discrimination, while raising slogans for immediate action. Association president Abdul Rashid Bhat said the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, has not been fully implemented in Jammu and Kashmir.

Bhat criticized the current disability pension of Rs 1,250 as inadequate and demanded an increase to Rs 3,000. He also called for interest-free loans to help disabled individuals start small businesses and special concessions on essentials, including LPG.

“We are only given assurances. Nothing changes on the ground,” Bhat said, warning that the association may launch an indefinite agitation outside the Jammu Assembly if demands are not met. The protest concluded peacefully, with participants vowing to continue their struggle until concrete measures are announced.