Section 7 of RPWD Act, 2016 : Section 7: Protection From Abuse, Violence And Exploitation

Explanation using Example

Consider a scenario where Mrs. Gupta, a wheelchair user, lives in an apartment complex. She has been facing harassment from a group of residents who block her access to the elevator, making derogatory comments about her disability. Mrs. Gupta's son learns about Section 7 of The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and decides to take action.

He reports the incidents to the local Executive Magistrate, explaining that his mother has been subjected to abuse and discrimination because of her disability. The Executive Magistrate, under Section 7(3), orders immediate intervention to stop the harassment.

The Magistrate issues an order for the police to ensure that Mrs. Gupta can use the elevator without obstruction (Section 7(3)(a)). Additionally, the Magistrate directs a local NGO specializing in disability rights to provide Mrs. Gupta with counseling and support (Section 7(3)(a)).

Furthermore, the Magistrate uses his authority under Section 7(5) to forward the case to a Judicial Magistrate, as the harassment constitutes an offence under the Indian Penal Code.

In the meantime, the police officer who initially received Mrs. Gupta's complaint informs her of her right to free legal aid and the details of the nearest organization working for the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities (Section 7(4)(b) and (c)).

This example illustrates how Section 7 of The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, is applied to protect individuals like Mrs. Gupta from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that they receive both immediate protection and legal recourse.