The National Trust for Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities Act, 1999, and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, are two significant laws in India that aim to promote the welfare and rights of persons with disabilities.

Similarities

  1. Protection of Rights: Both laws aim to protect the rights of persons with disabilities and promote their welfare.
  2. Accessibility: Both laws emphasize the importance of accessibility in public buildings, transportation, and services.
  3. Empowerment: Both laws aim to empower persons with disabilities by providing them with opportunities for education, employment, and social participation.

Differences

  1. Scope: The National Trust Act focuses specifically on autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and multiple disabilities, while the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act has a broader scope, covering all types of disabilities.
  2. Rights-Based Approach: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act adopts a rights-based approach, recognizing the rights of persons with disabilities as fundamental human rights. In contrast, the National Trust Act focuses more on the welfare and protection of persons with disabilities.
  3. Implementation Mechanisms: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act establishes a more robust implementation mechanism, including the creation of a National Commission for Persons with Disabilities and State Commissions. In contrast, the National Trust Act relies on the National Trust Board and State-level committees for implementation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both laws share similar goals and objectives, the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act is a more comprehensive and rights-based legislation that recognizes the rights of persons with disabilities as fundamental human rights. The National Trust Act, on the other hand, focuses more on the welfare and protection of persons with disabilities.

Legacy Editor Changed status to publish May 16, 2025