Protest Erupts State-wide as Differently, Abled Women Demand Inclusion in Magalir Urimai Thittam

A State-wide protest spearheaded by the Tamil Nadu Association for the Rights of All Types of Differently Abled and Caregivers (TARATDAC) unfolded on Monday, urging the government to rectify the exclusion of differently-abled women from the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam. The scheme, initiated in September to acknowledge women’s substantial contributions to both domestic and external spheres, grants ₹1,000 per month to eligible women heads of families.

However, the exclusion of differently abled women, who already receive disability allowances, has left over 135 individuals disheartened. Protestors gathered in Chennai, submitting a petition to the Collector, while similar petitions were presented in various districts. TARATDAC emphasized that disability allowances fall short of covering medical expenses, asserting the government’s oversight in deeming them ineligible.

The protest serves as a plea to bring this issue to the State government’s attention, with warnings of intensified advocacy if concerns remain unaddressed.