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print versionA video from Human Rights Watch, argues that the abusive system that locks up women and girls with psychosocial or intellectual disabilities in India should gave way to communities to take control. But it is precisely these so called communities that want the people locked up. Yes the law much change and the institutions humanised but this romantic notion about communities is a very silly idea, in a deeply conservative and patriarchal society where the authoritarian family structures shape the life worlds of all; where the vast majority of adults dont decide who they marry, the so called communites, caste, clan and family decide. The fantasies about community driven mental health can only take root when the so called communities be humanised first. Besides this looks like a proposal for the state to take a back seat and for privatisation to take hold. See below the video from Human Rights Watch - sacw editors
Video from Human Rights Watch: Women and girls with disabilities in India are forced into mental hospitals and institutions, where they face unsanitary conditions, risk physical and sexual violence, and experience involuntary treatment, including electroshock therapy. The Indian government should immediately order inspections and regular monitoring of all residential facilities – private and government-run – for women and girls with psychosocial or intellectual disabilities. India should also take steps to ensure people with psychosocial or intellectual disabilities can make decisions about their lives and receive treatment on the basis of informed consent.
