“Advocacy Interaction During NHRC Visit to Danapur Leprosy Colony”
To raise critical issues of exclusion and housing rights faced by leprosy-affected persons and advocate for their inclusion in government schemes and programs.
On 26th May 2025, the State Committee of the Association of People Affected by Leprosy (APAL) in Bihar took a significant step in advocating for the rights of persons affected by leprosy. During a visit to the Danapur Leprosy Colony by a delegation from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India, which included representatives from NLR India, the District Leprosy Prevention Officer (DLO), and other concerned officials, APAL leaders actively brought critical issues to light. The visit marked a key opportunity for the APAL State Committee to raise the voices of the community and highlight the neglect faced by leprosy-affected individuals in Bihar.
During the interaction, senior colony members, Mr. Ramesh APAL’s State Coordinator and Mr. Kamlesh, strongly conveyed their concerns to the NHRC team. One of the major issues raised was the exclusion of APAL leaders from government programs and activities coordinated by the District Leprosy Prevention Office. This lack of community participation contradicts the principles of rights-based approaches and meaningful inclusion, which are essential for the empowerment and dignity of persons affected by leprosy.
Another major concern presented to the Commission was the irregular and incomplete implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) in Bihar. Despite being eligible, many families residing in various leprosy colonies across the state have not received the benefits of the housing scheme. This deprivation has continued for years, leaving affected families in vulnerable living conditions without proper shelter. The APAL State Committee demanded immediate intervention from the authorities to ensure that the promises of central welfare schemes are fulfilled for all, without discrimination or delay. Through this engagement with the NHRC, the APAL State Committee in Bihar has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of people affected by leprosy. The Committee called for more inclusive governance and stronger accountability mechanisms, urging both state and central authorities to work closely with community leaders to address these long-standing issues.
