Deaf voters of K’taka demand representatives act on demands, not consolidate on votes

Chandra Prabhu | NT

Bengaluru: The biggest celebration of democracy is upon us. April 26 in Bengaluru will see citizens practice their esteemed right to vote for their representatives.

However, the hearing impaired voters of the city feel that their demands are being neglected, even after continuous demands to representatives.

Chandramouli, a hearing impaired voter from the Bengaluru South Lok Sabha constituency, cites the common problem of communication.

“We find it difficult to explain our needs to the officials. Sign language in government offices should be mandated,” he added.

He also cited that the successful candidates must prioritise water shortages.

“Prompt planning of sourcing water and rejuvenating lakes should be prioritised,” Chandramouli added.

“People like us are least aware of Income tax rules. The education provided to people here is poor, leading to unemployment,” he signed off.

Deepak, another resident from the same constituency, alleged that those hearing impaired with a degree are neglected for prospective employment.

“Both the Centre and the State need to inject funds into education. Hospitals, both public and private should have sign language as a mode of communication,” he added.

Ganesh Rao, who will vote in the Bangalore North constituency, alleged that the representatives have been negligent of demands put forth by the people with disabilities.

“The Incumbent MP here has forgotten our demands for jobs and education,” Rao alleged.

“We have the Prime Minister claiming to spread sign language, but the implementation is close to zero,” he said.

Reward deaf sportspersons, revive MGNREGA, voters from K’taka say

Shashikant, from Kalaburagi, had said that the representatives need to revive the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, which was implemented in 2005.

“Unemployment amongst people like us is a big issue. The representatives must consider it, instead of consolidating votes,” he added.

Mahesh, a voter from the Mysuru-Kodagu constituency said that the number of schools for the deaf is lesser than the neighbouring states.

“School and college graduates do not have any skills to show for,” he said.