Bombay High Court Allows Visually Impaired Student to Pursue Physiotherapy Course

The Bombay High Court has delivered a significant judgement, permitting a visually impaired student to pursue a physiotherapy course. The division bench of Justices Gautam Patel and Neela Gokhale criticised the Maharashtra State Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy Council for its stance that no visual impairment could be allowed for those interested in studying physiotherapy.

The court's order, issued on June 20, came in response to a petition filed by Zill Jain, a student with a visual impairment disability of 40 percent. Jain sought admission to the physiotherapy course, which was opposed by the council, arguing that physiotherapists play crucial roles in operating theatres, surgical units, and ICUs, and therefore any degree of blindness should not be permitted.

Expressing disappointment with the council's approach, the court emphasised that the constitutional mandate was not to exclude individuals but to find ways to assist those in need. It stated that the council's position was not only unacceptable but also a betrayal of its constitutional and statutory duties.

The bench firmly disagreed with the council's claim that disabled individuals were incapable of meeting ethical and legal responsibilities. It criticised the council's belief that certain fields should be forever closed to those with disabilities, deeming it contrary to the law and a perversion of justice.

The court emphasised that the council's primary responsibility was to align its education curricula and policies with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act. It directed that Jain's admission and studies should not be disrupted or cancelled based on her low vision impairment.

This ruling by the Bombay High Court sets an important precedent for inclusivity in education and highlights the need for equal opportunities for students with disabilities. It sends a strong message that individuals should not be deprived of pursuing their chosen field based solely on their disabilities.

Jain, who successfully cleared the NEET (UG) examination and secured admission to the physiotherapy course at Nair Hospital in Mumbai, can now continue her studies without interruptions. This decision not only supports her aspirations but also reaffirms the commitment to inclusivity and equality for all individuals, regardless of their disabilities.

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