SpiceJet offloaded a woman with cerebral palsy. It needs to do more than issue a press statement Jeeja Ghosh,a teacher at Kolkatas Institute of Cerebral Palsy,herself a sufferer,was on her way to Goa to deliver a lecture on mainstreaming the differently abled until she found herself becoming an unwitting case study in discrimination. She was taken off her SpiceJet flight,with no real explanation offered,except that the pilot was uncomfortable flying her. The airline also refused to put its reasons in writing. By the requirements of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation,no airline can refuse to fly persons with disabilities. While accessibility rules in India are not as exhaustive as in many other countries,they insist that airlines make every effort to facilitate their travel by accommodating assistive devices and training the staff to help them. At all points,they have the same freedom and choice as any other consumer. Airlines cannot insist on an escort. The only case in which they can ask for a medical clearance is when they have information that a passenger has a contagious affliction,or that a medical condition could be aggravated by the flight,and may require special attention or equipment. Even in that case,it is a polite procedure that involves their medical department,and the passengers cooperation. SpiceJets behaviour is a clear flouting of aviation norms and a case of unconscionable discrimination against the differently abled. It was a violation of Jeeja Ghoshs civil rights,and must be treated as such. Whether in aviation or any other field,to ensure that everyones dignity is equally respected,you need to make extra preparations to accommodate those with impairments. In India,most airlines still have staff carrying people with disabilities up a staircase,in wheelchairs. (IndiGo is an exception,with passenger ramps and disability-friendly,low-floor buses.) This SpiceJet episode is only one standout illustration of the many ways in which persons with disabilities are excluded,passed over,treated as less entitled but we need to make examples of these cases,to create a fairer environment for everyone. Rather than getting away with a pro forma letter of regret,they must face the full consequences of their action.
