At the outset, let me make it clear that I am not doing this to campaign for VIP treatment for the physically challenged or to undermine our national security. I want a system that does not discriminate against any user of an airport, whether a first-timer who arrives on a wheelchair, or someone else with an artificial limb. I want a security check that will not be another impediment adding to the other ordeals they face in their day-to-day life.
They say that the third time is the charm, but for me, this third incident has only strengthened my resolve to push for change in how the physically challenged are treated at security checks in Indian airports. Before I go into the details, I would like to wholeheartedly thank the media and my well-wishers for giving due coverage to my experience and rallying behind this cause. Your support is what keeps me going.
Three times in the span of eight weeks, I have been utterly humiliated at the Bangalore and Delhi airports on account of my prosthetic leg during security checks. As any amputee can tell you, the process of removing and then reattaching a prosthesis is both painful and time-consuming. Adding to this, the lack of sensitivity from some of the personnel irks me every time.
The first time at the Bangalore airport on August 26, the CISF (para-military) personnel as well as the Assistant Commandant who was the security in-charge behaved extremely rudely with me and almost made me strip. I was appalled at the inhuman treatment coming from people who are entrusted with ensuring our security and well-being. The second incident, four days later, was a repeat of the experience, but for the fact that Assistant Commandant Rajeev had the courtesy to inform me that they were following the rules laid down by the BCAS - Bureau of Civil Aviation Security. The third time on October 11, again in Bangalore, was a bitter experience with one Mr. Das hell-bent on recreating the trauma of the first time. The only difference was that I had suffered an injury on my stump (operated limb) and by the end of the process, I was bleeding. "It is your problem!" was their response.
Thankfully, I have the mental capacity to overcome such obstacles, but this battle is not just for me. It is for each one of my extended family of physically challenged people, so no one ever need go through this again.
Many of you who have read my story have responded positively and put in well-appreciated words of motivation. But there are some who are unable to understand the physical and mental embarrassment that I went through and cannot appreciate why this change is required.
Firstly, as earlier said, I am not advocating that the physically challenged or the d
ivyangs be given VIP status. I just want us to be given the same treatment as any other person with a bit of sensitivity and help us retain our self-respect. Let's briefly compare what the current rules our BCAS has vs. what the TSA (Transport Security Administration, USA) has - The TSA will never ask you to remove your prosthesis and be screened by metal detectors or with pat-downs. Any other support appliance like casts or braces may be subject to additional screening like X-rays. Our BCAS, on the other hand, regards artificial limbs as potential security risks and seeks the removal of prosthesis, no matter how painful it may be or what proof you carry. The TSA mandates that travelers have the right to ask for a private screening and a disposable drape, which would avoid the sort of public embarrassment and trauma that I was subjected to thrice. If in a wheelchair, the TSA will let you be seated while you are screened by an x-ray or a pat-down. In India, you will be required to stand-up while you are being checked, no matter the level of inconvenience. Absolutely inhuman!
Now, I am very proud of India, but if we need to reach global standards on how we treat the disabled, we have a very long way to go.
This brings me to the second point, which is the physical equipment. In many airports, there is an utter lack of body scanners for the physically challenged using advanced imaging technology or X-rays, which would save us a lot of trouble and shame. A quick check in the same time that your baggage is checked would be a drastic improvement over the 40 minutes it took me to take off and then put back on my prosthesis.
The third and the most important is the sensitization of the personnel who carry out the checks. Just like I mentioned before, I do not want special privileges. I wish for respect and dignity. I greatly admire our armed forces and our security forces; I have worked extensively with the Central Armed Police Forces to motivate many promising para-athletes. However, the CISF needs to be sensitized to our needs and though it may take an extra bit of effort, do what is necessary to treat us fairly. We are as human as they are and the recognition of that fact is my bare minimum expectation.
After all, the UN Human Rights clearly says "Every person with disabilities has a right to respect for his or her physical and mental integrity on an equal basis with others."
I know "it is my problem", but should it continue to be a problem?
To support making a change, click
here.
(Aditya Mehta is a silver-medallist at the Asian Para-Cycling Championship 2013)Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.