Empower, don’t just accommodate autistic persons: Rajya Sabha Chairman

Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan on Thursday (April 2, 2026) called for a shared national responsibility in ensuring that persons with autism are “not merely accommodated but fully empowered as valued members of our national community,” marking the United Nations-designated World Autism Awareness Day observed on April 2.

Addressing the House on the occasion, Mr. Radhakrishnan reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and promoting the welfare of persons with autism.

Noting that the UN theme for this year — Advancing Neurodiversity and the Sustainable Development Goals — underscores the need to recognise neurodiversity as an integral part of human diversity, he said developmental efforts must be both inclusive and sustainable.

“Autism spectrum disorder affects communication, behaviour, and social interaction. However, individuals on the spectrum possess distinctive strengths and capabilities which, with appropriate support and opportunities, can greatly enrich our society,” he said.

Mr. Radhakrishnan pointed to India’s legislative architecture — the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the National Trust Act, 1999 — as evidence of a robust framework to secure rights and extend support services.

However, he struck a cautionary note, saying laws and schemes “achieve their true purpose only when their benefits reach every eligible individual.” Stressing the need for systemic action, he called for greater focus on early diagnosis, inclusive education, skill training, and community-level awareness to bridge existing gaps and advance equality.

“An inclusive society is strengthened when every citizen, irrespective of ability, is given the opportunity to contribute and succeed,” Mr. Radhakrishnan said, urging members to reaffirm their collective determination to foster “an environment of understanding, acceptance, and equal participation.”