Demand recognition of one-eyed persons as 40% disabled
The Issue
My name is Sujit Kumar Lenka, and I hail from Dhenkanal, Odisha. My right eye is 100% blind due to Phthisis Bulbi, leaving me with no perception of light. My left eye is compromised as well, diagnosed with lattice degeneration with a hole, which required treatment with laser surgery at LV Prasad Eye Institute, Bhubaneswar on 09-09-2026. Despite these severe visual impairments, my Unique Disability ID (OD1420219910073958) card reflects only a 30% disability rating. This falls short of the 40% threshold needed to qualify as a Benchmark Disability under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016.
This discrepancy in the disability rating has profound implications on my life. Being classified as less than 40% disabled means I do not qualify for government assistance, job reservations, or social support systems designed to assist those with recognized disabilities. I live with the constant fear of losing vision in my remaining functional eye, which affects my ability to judge distances, makes night vision nearly impossible, and severely limits my activities. This impacts not only me but countless others who share the same struggles.
Prior to 2018, individuals like me were given a disability percentage of 0%. While the increase to 30% marks some progress, it remains insufficient for those of us who continue to struggle without the vital support we need. The gap between reality and recognition is vast, and this oversight must be addressed urgently.
I am calling upon the relevant authorities and lawmakers to amend the current disability assessment criteria to recognize those of us with total vision in only one eye as having at least 40% disability. This change is not just about numbers; it's about acknowledging the significant challenges we face daily and ensuring we have equitable access to resources and opportunities.
I urge everyone to support this petition. By signing, you are standing up for justice, fairness, and necessary reform that will change lives and provide deserved support to thousands who currently face these hardships alone. Please, lend your voice to this cause and help us secure a future filled with possibilities rather than limitations. Sign the petition today.
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The Issue
My name is Sujit Kumar Lenka, and I hail from Dhenkanal, Odisha. My right eye is 100% blind due to Phthisis Bulbi, leaving me with no perception of light. My left eye is compromised as well, diagnosed with lattice degeneration with a hole, which required treatment with laser surgery at LV Prasad Eye Institute, Bhubaneswar on 09-09-2026. Despite these severe visual impairments, my Unique Disability ID (OD1420219910073958) card reflects only a 30% disability rating. This falls short of the 40% threshold needed to qualify as a Benchmark Disability under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016.
This discrepancy in the disability rating has profound implications on my life. Being classified as less than 40% disabled means I do not qualify for government assistance, job reservations, or social support systems designed to assist those with recognized disabilities. I live with the constant fear of losing vision in my remaining functional eye, which affects my ability to judge distances, makes night vision nearly impossible, and severely limits my activities. This impacts not only me but countless others who share the same struggles.
Prior to 2018, individuals like me were given a disability percentage of 0%. While the increase to 30% marks some progress, it remains insufficient for those of us who continue to struggle without the vital support we need. The gap between reality and recognition is vast, and this oversight must be addressed urgently.
I am calling upon the relevant authorities and lawmakers to amend the current disability assessment criteria to recognize those of us with total vision in only one eye as having at least 40% disability. This change is not just about numbers; it's about acknowledging the significant challenges we face daily and ensuring we have equitable access to resources and opportunities.
I urge everyone to support this petition. By signing, you are standing up for justice, fairness, and necessary reform that will change lives and provide deserved support to thousands who currently face these hardships alone. Please, lend your voice to this cause and help us secure a future filled with possibilities rather than limitations. Sign the petition today.
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Petition created on 16 September 2026