LHC seeks response over disability jobs quota petition

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has sought a reply from the secretary of special education on a petition alleging that reserved job quota seats for persons with disabilities were abolished or not implemented.

Justice Malik Awais Khalid heard the petition, which was filed by Azhar Siddique, and issued notices to the respondents, including the secretary special education.

The case concerns enforcement of the mandatory three per cent employment quota for persons with disabilities. During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel argued that although applications had been received from persons with disabilities, the authorities were not providing jobs in line with the quota set under the law.

Petition cites earlier court directions

The court was told that directions had previously been issued for the development of a software system to deal with complaints of special persons. According to the proceedings, those directions also covered a dedicated mobile application and an online mechanism for the issuance of disability certificates.

The petitioner maintained that despite what he described as clear judicial directions, the relevant authorities had not implemented the orders. He argued that the failure to act amounted to contempt of court.

The petition further stated that the alleged abolition of reserved quota seats, or the failure to implement them, had deprived persons with disabilities of what it described as their constitutional right to employment.

Relief sought from the court

Through the petition, the court has been asked to direct the Punjab government to ensure strict implementation of its earlier orders regarding the employment quota for persons with disabilities.

The petitioner has also sought improved facilities for persons with disabilities, in addition to enforcement of the quota already prescribed under the law.

Following the initial hearing, the LHC called for a response from the secretary special education as the matter proceeds.