New Delhi, August 15: The Delhi High Court has directed the concerned stakeholders to work towards a broader and practical framework for improving accessibility of films for persons with disabilities, observing that the issue goes beyond the accessibility concerns surrounding a particular movie.Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma issued the direction while hearing a petition filed by visually impaired petitioner Rahul Bajaj.
The court asked the petitioner and the respondents to hold a joint meeting within a week and subsequently work towards a positive resolution within two weeks.The petition raised concerns regarding accessibility of films, including Pushpa 2: The Rule. Bajaj submitted that the difficulties faced by persons with disabilities are not limited to one film and that similar problems continue to arise while accessing other movies.
According to the petition, visually impaired viewers may not be able to experience films on an equal footing without facilities such as audio descriptions. It also highlighted the need for same-language closed captions or subtitles and Indian Sign Language interpretation for viewers with hearing-related disabilities.The petitioner alleged that films are sometimes screened without adequate accessibility facilities despite statutory and regulatory provisions concerning accessibility.
The petition further claimed that even where such facilities are available, they may be offered only at selected theatres or require viewers to make separate requests, which could itself create accessibility barriers.Bajaj sought directions for the availability of accessibility features across cinema halls, OTT platforms and other formats.
He also sought implementation of accessibility standards issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Among other demands, the petition sought accessible digital ticket-booking systems, assistive devices and technologies at theatres, and greater transparency regarding which films have accessibility features.The petitioner also sought appropriate action, including monetary penalties under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, against entities found to be violating applicable accessibility requirements.
During the hearing, counsel appearing for the respondents submitted that the concerns specifically relating to Pushpa 2 had already been addressed and appropriate measures had been taken.Taking note of the wider issues raised in the petition, the High Court said the matter required discussion among all concerned parties and directed them to explore a feasible and mutually acceptable solution.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 11. The court has also directed that its order be uploaded on its official website without delay.The proceedings could have wider implications for how accessibility features are provided across India’s cinema and digital entertainment platforms.
