Kerala High Court judge Justice Devan Ramachandran has called for barrier-free public spaces for visually impaired people, stressing that society must respect their independence instead of creating obstacles in their daily lives. Speaking at White Cane Day celebrations in Kochi, he highlighted the misuse of footpaths and tactile pathways intended to help visually impaired pedestrians navigate public spaces safely.
Justice Ramachandran was inaugurating the event organised by the Rotary Club of Cochin Global at Infopark, Kakkanad, on Sunday. He said inclusive infrastructure should be designed to accommodate people with different abilities rather than forcing them to adapt to systems built for the majority.
Kerala High Court Judge Criticises Blocked Footpaths
Referring to vehicles occupying pedestrian walkways despite court interventions, Justice Ramachandran criticised the failure to keep footpaths, pedestrian paths and crossings accessible.
He emphasised that people with visual impairments do not need sympathy but a society that respects their independence. He also described a city where people cannot walk safely as failing to meet a basic requirement of urban life.
The judge recalled participating in a blindfolded white cane walk before the event, describing the experience as one of the most difficult moments of his life. He suggested that motorists, particularly bus drivers, participate in similar exercises to better understand the challenges faced by visually impaired pedestrians.
He also stressed that meaningful inclusion requires society to change its approach rather than making people dependent and subsequently claiming credit for helping them become independent.
Project Surya Expands Skills and Employment Opportunities
The event also highlighted Project Surya, an initiative of the Rotary Club of Cochin Global that provides free training to visually impaired people in computer use, assistive technology, mobility, communication and life skills.
According to the organisers, the programme has reached more than 2,000 visually impaired people through 20 foundation-course batches, 45 online batches and awareness workshops.
Project Surya founding trustee Rotarian Noby E A said nearly 80% of former students were employed across government offices, private companies, IT parks and non-governmental organisations.
The initiative began in 2008 with seven students at Infopark's Vismaya Building, following an initiative by Rotarian George Mathew. It received support from the Society for Rehabilitation of Visually Challenged, Infopark and Enable India, Bengaluru. The programme was renamed Project Surya in 2015 and expanded to accommodate 15 students per batch in 2017.
Eligible participants also receive assistance with boarding, travel and learning materials.
Rotary Club Plans to Expand Digital Training
Rotary Club of Cochin Global president Dr John T John said the organisation planned to expand digital-skills training, introduce newer assistive technologies, strengthen employer partnerships and extend its outreach to rural and semi-urban areas.
The event highlighted two connected priorities: removing physical barriers in public spaces and improving access to education, technology and employment for visually impaired people.
For official information on judicial developments, visit the Kerala High Court website.
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