Pune: A re-verification process for disability certificates of newly recruited teachers claiming Persons with Disabilities (PwD) status has been initiated by Pune Zilla Parishad ’s primary education department. The department has referred 12 prospective teachers and their disability certificates to Sassoon General Hospital for a comprehensive reassessment to rule out any potential cases of disability certificate fraud to secure govt benefits. The scrutiny comes in the wake of the recent case involving probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar for the authenticity of her disability and OBC certificates.
A senior official from Pune ZP’s education department told TOI, “Individuals with disabilities are entitled to various govt benefits, including preferential treatment in transfers, tax exemptions, doubled vehicle allowances, and specific disability allowances.” The official, on condition of anonymity, said, “We want to ensure that these benefits reach those who genuinely qualify. If any candidate is found to have falsified their disability status, we will take strict action.
This includes cancelling their appointment and barring them from recruitment.” The Zilla Parishad official added that they want to exercise caution and ensure that no candidates are using fraudulent means. Sassoon General Hospital is expected to verify the disability claims.
“The hospital will re-verify the extent and percentage of disability in the candidates whose details we have sent," he added. The candidates in question are from various parts of Maharashtra and were issued disability certificates by competent medical authorities notified under the Unique Disability Identity card (UDID) by the state govt. "However, during recruitment in a govt department, we can initiate re-verification if needed.
This is to rule out instances where the percentage of disability has been previously exaggerated in the certificate," the official added. A senior official from Sassoon General Hospital confirmed that the Zilla Parishad had sent the candidates' certificates and details to them for cross-verification. “The authorities want the candidates' disability percentage to be rechecked over concerns about potentially fraudulent disability certificates,” he said, requesting anonymity.
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For less than 40% disability, govt plans white UDID card The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment proposed new draft amendments to the RPwD Act, 2016, introducing white UDID cards for those below 40% disability. This followed a case where an IAS officer obtained multiple disability certificates fraudulently. The draft changes include extending the certificate issuance timeline to three months for thorough assessments, aiming to plug system loopholes.
We must ensure a dignified life for disabled kids: CJ HC Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha emphasized the need for legislative efforts, inclusive education, healthcare, and societal awareness to support children with disabilities. At the 9th State Level Stakeholders' Consultation, he highlighted challenges and called for inter-departmental cooperation. The event also featured artwork by disabled children and deliberations on judicial processes for child welfare.
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