92 i RIGHTS OF THE VULNERABLE
• Identify broad areas of co-operation between the Commission and the NGOs
with good track record engaged in the advancement of the rights of the disabled.
• Consider any other important issue relating to disabled persons.
8.40 Ms. Anuradha Mohit, former Deputy Chief Commissioner for Persons with
Disabilities, has been appointed by the Commission to serve as Special
Rapporteur(Disability). This appointment should greatly strengthen the capacity of
the Commission to address issues relating to disabilities.
D] Rights of the Elderly
8.41 The Commission is represented on the National Council for Older Persons
constituted by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment The first meeting of
this Council was held on 13 June 2000 when a draft long term Action Plan (2000-2005)
was discussed in relation to the implementation of the National Policy on Older
Persons. The Commission, thereafter, considered the draft Action Plan and its
comments and suggestions on that plan were conveyed to the Ministry of Social
Justice and Empowerment.
8.42 The Commission has stressed that there is need for better mobilisation and
coordination of efforts on behalf of the elderly. To identify areas of activity of particular
importance to them, the Commission held two rounds of discussions with Non-
Governmental Organisations working for the rights of older persons. The following
suggestions emerged from those discussions:
• Medical Insurance cover is need for older persons beyond 70 years, for as long as
they live.
• Provision of separate queues for older persons in hospitals.
• Need for having Old Age Homes in every area. Every major Hospital/District
Hospital andPrimary Health Centre must have a separate wing for older persons
and a hospice for the terminally ill funded by Government.
NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION