Leh, April 20: A press briefing was held today in response to the ongoing protest by Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), especially wheelchair users, who have been highlighting issues related to inaccessibility, lack of representation, and the need for job reservations.

The press meet was addressed by Dy. Chairman Tsering Angchuk; DC/CEO, LAHDC Leh Santosh Sukhadeve; and SSP Leh Shruti Arora, in the presence of LBA Youth Wing President Jigmet Raftan, PAGIR President Tsewang Dorjey, and PAGIR member Padma Stanzin.

The protestors have been demanding a disability-inclusive policy, representation in governance, job reservation for wheelchair users, and improved accessibility in public spaces and government buildings.

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During the press briefing, the Dy. Chairman said that a meeting will be held within a week to discuss the issues raised. He assured that the all the executive members and concerned officers will be called in the meeting, and district-level initiatives will be explored to address the demands.

DC Leh Santosh Sukhadeve said that the administration will coordinate with the ARTO and transport department to resolve the pending license-related issues at the earliest. He added that priority will be given to making government buildings and public spaces accessible, and upcoming projects will be designed keeping inclusivity in mind. Modifications to existing structures will also be considered.

At the end of the press briefing, the Dy. Chairman, DC, and SSP offered juices to the protestors, who called off their hunger strike following assurances from the officials.