DW BUREAU / Chandigarh/Patiala

Punjab's Minister of Social Security, Women, and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, emphasized that individuals unable to speak or hear are an integral part of society. The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is giving full priority to sign language. Dr. Baljit Kaur was attending the state-level function of International Day of Sign Languages in Patiala.

On this occasion, Dr. Baljit Kaur announced that, in consultation with the Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, sign language will soon be implemented in the Vidhan Sabha to convey the proceedings of the House to individuals who are unable to speak or hear. Furthermore, the Punjab Police will be trained in sign language to ensure justice for such individuals.

Dr. Baljit Kaur explained that, according to natural laws, every human being has some form of disability. Therefore, it is our duty to uplift those who are disadvantaged. She added that individuals who are silent often have great inner strength and the Punjab Government is dedicated to recognizing and nurturing their hidden talents. Physical impairments do not make a person incomplete, but mental limitations are far more detrimental.

Social Security Minister also highlighted that language is a tool for understanding one another but love, affection, harmony and compassion are the greatest languages. She stated that marginalized individuals are created when their voices are not heard and the Punjab Government is making significant efforts to integrate these marginalized individuals into the mainstream of society. She encouraged people, especially children who cannot speak or hear, to view sign language not as a barrier but as an opportunity to pursue their goals and dreams.

Commending the student performances, Dr. Baljit Kaur remarked that Patiala district has set an example for the rest of Punjab by creating a supportive environment for physically challenged children to thrive.

On this occasion, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Preeti Yadav welcomed the Cabinet Minister and shared the efforts made by the Patiala district administration for the speech and hearing impaired. Ravinder Kaur from Noida Deaf Society discussed the background of International Sign Language Day and thanked Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for organizing this state-level event in Patiala.

Students from Patiala School for the Deaf, Vani Integrated School for Hearing Impaired, Noida Deaf Society and Speaking Hands Society Rajpura performed vibrant programs during the event.
(editor@dailyworld.in)