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Abstract
Historically in India as elsewhere in the world, there has been a deep-rooted cultural antipathy to persons with disabilities. Throughout the ages the disabled have been looked down upon with disdain, almost as if they were sub-human. They have been portrayed as medical anomalies, helpless victims and a lifelong burden for family and society. Disability was said to be a ‘taboo’, viewed by many people as bringing ‘disgrace’ or ‘stigma’ upon a family. In Indian context disability has been linked to a religious belief in ‘karma’, the idea that being born or becoming disabled is a result of wrong doing in a previous incarnation. Persons with disabilities are amongst the most socially marginalized groups. They are constantly faced with discrimination and are subjected to neglect, prejudice, revulsion, rejection and pity. They face economic, educational, architectural, legal and health barriers, which prevent them from leading a fulfilling life and achieving their full potential. Indeed, the majority of persons with disabilities pass their lives in total isolation, abject poverty and absolute misery. Needless to say the plight of women with disabilities is even worse, since they face the double burden of being female and disabled too.