Archive · 29 Dec 2025
Maharashtra Notifies Rules for Disability Abuse Complaints
Maharashtra has created special rules to help people with disabilities who face abuse or violence.
Before, these cases were often treated as private matters and didn't get the attention they needed.
Now, people can report these issues to the police or special authorities who will take action.
The rules also make sure that victims get protection, medical help, and support.
This is the first time any state in India has made such detailed rules to protect people with disabilities.
Experts are happy about this step but say it's important to teach everyone about these rules so they work well.
Maharashtra has become the first state in India to notify Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for handling complaints of abuse, violence, and exploitation against Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).
The SOPs designate sub-divisional magistrates and district magistrates as competent authorities to take cognisance of such complaints and implement preventive and protective measures.
Aggrieved PwDs or authorised representatives can lodge complaints with the police, who must forward them to the competent authority for action under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016).
The state's Persons with Disabilities Welfare Department has issued a Government Resolution (GR) in November to declare the SOPs, aiming to protect the dignity and rights of PwDs.
Experts welcome the move but emphasize the need for public awareness and sensitisation of all stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the SOPs.
- Who
- Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in Maharashtra
- What
- Maharashtra has notified Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to handle complaints of abuse, violence, and exploitation against PwDs
- When
- The SOPs were issued in November 2023
- Where
- Maharashtra, India
- Why
- To protect the rights and dignity of PwDs and ensure legal remedies, preventive, and protective measures
- State
- Maharashtra
- Act
- Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016)
- Competent Authorities
- Sub-divisional magistrate and district magistrate
- Complaint Lodging
- Police or directly to competent authority
- Key Official
- Tukaram Mundhe, Secretary, Persons with Disabilities Welfare department
- NGO Support
- Sol’s Arc, ADAPT
- Implementation
- Public awareness and stakeholder sensitisation