It is unfortunate that generally, there is not enough discussion on the wellbeing of physically and mentally challenged persons in our society. They are often ignored and the discussion that takes place about them is mostly limited to rhetoric. There are many examples that show that if they get the right opportunities they can contribute to society in a meaningful manner.

There is much prejudice against them and many barriers to their advancement. Few people are able to go beyond the obvious and recognise the potential within. So it was a relief to note that at an advocacy meeting held at Rangpur Sadar upazila parishad auditorium on Thursday stressed ensuring participation and representation of disabled people in overall uplift activities have become crucial for their advancement to attain the sustainable development goals (SDGs) leaving none behind. We hope that the views are not just translated into inane platitudes.

Disability, particularly of the head of household, exacerbates poverty of the whole family due to increased expenses, lack of income from the 'carer' and lack of opportunities due to social exclusion. In Bangladesh, most people with disabilities live in the rural areas.

They and sometimes also their families are often excluded both from their communities and from development initiatives. The most vulnerable ones are women and children with disabilities. Most places of work do not have wheelchair access — which can become the very reason the disabled are not considered for employment.

The state could lead the way in ensuring that all public buildings and installations can be accessed by persons with disabilities, and making it mandatory for privately owned spaces to follow suit. Bangladesh will only earn laurels to gain by seriously taking up the cause of disabled citizens.