Articles by Nilika Mehrotra

This paper charts the history of the disability rights movements in India by referring to the social and political contexts within which they emerged, the ideological influences, structures, issues, possibilities and challenges. Several factors were involved in the rise of disability movements in the late 1980s and 1990s. Among these was a much more accountable state policy, the strong presence of women's movements, and the interest and push of international agencies, the presence of which created a more conducive space for the political mobilisation of marginalised groups such as the disabled. The passing of the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995 owes much more to international pressure than to lobbying and protests by disability rights groups. The disability rights movement in India is still trying to register its presence in the public sphere. It has, however, undoubtedly touched the lives of masses of disabled persons and pushed for a more disabled-friendly environment in the country.

Exploring Differences Women, Disability and Identity edited by Asha Hans and Annie Patri; Sage Publications, New Delhi, 2003;
NILIKA MEHROTRA Disability studies are a relatively new field in India. Those working in this area are acutely aware of the general apathy shown by Indian social scientists to the disability question and the paucity of academic literature in this regard. In this context, this book is a welcome addition to social science literature. This volume is an outcome of a conference, organised by the Shanta Memorial Rehabilitation Centre (SMRC) in Bhubaneshwar, to look into focused and related issues within the field of women and disability. Owing to the proliferation of disability studies world over, and with disability rights movements and UN resolutions, gradual awareness building has begun. The role of civil society is crucial here in pressurising respective states to take note of the problems of the disabled through a rights approach.