A motion has been submitted to the People's Majlis regarding the neglect of necessary health assistance and social responsibility for persons with disabilities by responsible institutions.

The issue was submitted on Monday by the Member of Parliament for North Galolhu constituency, Mohamed “Kudoo” Ibrahim.

The motion states that according to Article 17 of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives, it is prohibited to discriminate based on a person's physical or mental disability in providing fundamental rights. The issue also highlights that actions taken to assist or protect those who are more disadvantaged than the general public or those who need social protection are not considered discrimination.

The motion highlights that the Maldives has established a legal system for special protection and benefits for persons with disabilities under the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Provision of Financial Assistance Act. However, it states that the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) is neglecting to provide the special protection, financial assistance, and medical treatment mandated by law for children with disabilities both in the Maldives and abroad.

Further, the motion goes on to read that families of children with disabilities are having to pay therapy fees themselves because the government is not covering these costs. It also expresses concerns about long therapy queues, high therapy costs, and people being deprived of necessary treatment.

The motion also highlights the significant challenges surfacing due to the unavailability of essential medicines and various medical equipment in the Maldives for children with special conditions such as autism and ADHD.

The lawmaker noted that the general living conditions of such individuals are deteriorating due to the lack of solutions for such negligence. The motion revealed that irreparable health, psychological, and physical damages are being inflicted on these individuals and their families.

The motion has been submitted with the purpose of bringing these matters to the government's attention, identifying the challenges in resolving the issue, and calling for necessary actions to provide adequate protection for people who need social safety and protection.