The Punjab government recently took notice of a clash between visually impaired protesters and the police at Lahore’s Mall Road. The protesters have been demonstrating for nine days, demanding the government revoke a ban on job quotas for the disabled.
During the clash, 40 people were injured and admitted to hospitals. Protester Abdul Shakoor accused the police of baton-charging the demonstrators, now camped outside the Chief Minister’s House. Despite 7,000 vacant job seats for disabled persons, their demands for permanent jobs remain unmet.
Meanwhile, the police denied using violence against protesters, claiming only that eight personnel were injured by stones thrown at them. Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz ordered a peaceful resolution, urging patience and dialogue with the protesters.
Similar protests have occurred in the past, highlighting the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in demanding their rights. Pakistan is obligated to implement laws for persons with disabilities, with job quotas set aside to increase their employment opportunities.
