Supreme Court directs UPSC to allow scribe changes and implement screen reader software, ensuring accessibility and equal opportunity for Persons With Disability in competitive examinations.
Case in NewsThe Disability Rights Reforms For UPSC Exams ruling strengthens accessibility for Persons With Disability in civil services tests . |
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Case Overview
Case Name: MISSION ACCESSIBILITY v. UNION OF INDIA & ANR., W.P.(C) No. 206/2025
The Supreme Court, in a progressive judgment by Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta, directed the UPSC to permit candidates with disabilities to change their scribe’s name up to seven days before the examination . The Court also sought a detailed proposal for deploying screen reader software for visually impaired candidates . The petition was filed by “Mission Accessibility,” seeking modification of scribe timelines and permission for using laptops with screen reader support in UPSC examinations . The ruling, delivered on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities emphasised accessibility and equal opportunity in line with the objectives of the RPwD Act .
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Key Aspects
Before analysing legal implications, the factual background shows systemic access barriers faced by disabled aspirants and the need for uniform standards in UPSC examinations .
- UPSC’s existing scribe policy lacked flexibility causing hardship to disabled candidates .
- Petition raised issues of restrictive timelines and lack of screen reader software .
- UPSC had expressed willingness to introduce screen reader technology but needed structured implementation .
- Key issue: Whether UPSC must revise policies to ensure effective accessibility for Persons With Disability.
Legal Insights
The Court grounded its reasoning in constitutional protections and statutory obligations under disability law .
- Articles 14, 19 & 21 of Constitution of India– ensure equality, dignity, and non-discrimination .
- RPwD Act, 2016 (Sections 16 & 17) – mandates inclusive education, accessibility and reasonable accommodation .
- Duty of UPSC to ensure accessible exams under its constitutional mandate .
Court’s Verdict
The Supreme Court directed UPSC to :
- Allow scribe name changes up to seven days before the exam .
- Submit a compliance plan within two months detailing deployment of screen reader software .
- Formulate uniform assistive technology guidelines with DEPwD and NIEPVD .
- Coordinate with DoPT and the Ministry of Social Justice for smooth implementation .
The ruling reinforces accessibility, ensuring UPSC processes uphold equality and dignity for Persons With Disability .
Source – Supreme Court of India
Read also – Constitution of India
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