Need ideas to remove stigma, achieve safe world for people with mental illnesses, says NHRC chairperson
Jul 13, 2022
New Delhi [India], July 13 : National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chairperson Justice Arun Mishra on Wednesday said it is time to think of innovative ideas to remove the stigma and achieve a safe world for persons with mental illnesses and urged society and family members to accept and support them post-treatment.
He was addressing the NHRC India delegation on their two-day visit to Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh conducted a workshop in collaboration with Madhya Pradesh Government to formulate a plan for efficient working of the Gwalior Mansik Arogyashala.
This is in continuation with the visit and inspection of the Gwalior Mansik Arogyashala on July 12, 2022.
The Chief Guest of the workshop, NHRC Chairperson, Justice Arun Mishra, said that mental illnesses are still a stigma in society and there is a long way to go before we achieve the solutions.
"The individuals suffering from such illness are looked down upon in society, which restricts them from the enjoyment of their human rights. The biggest problem is with their rehabilitation in mainstream society after their treatment. The stigma attached with the mental illness and the lack of awareness causes impediments in getting the acceptance by their family," he said.
Justice Mishra urged for laws to compel the families to accept them back post-treatment, including the provision of maintenance and right to property.
He said that such an approach should be based on love, care and affection.
"It is time to think of innovative ideas to remove the stigma and achieve a safe world for the persons with mental illnesses," he added.
Justice Mishra said that it should be the duty of every individual, to protect the rights of people suffering from mental illness.
He said that the change should begin by changing mindsets.
"Unless the mindsets are changed, no amendments in the Acts will yield results. If it just remains on paper and is not implemented in its true spirit it would lead to failure of rule of law," said Justice Mishra.
He said that it is time to stop the blame game and work on constitutionally objective solutions in the right spirit to protect the rights of persons with mental illness.
