Ministry seeks action against RaajjeTV over autism-related commentary

Ministry of Social and Family Development is seeking action against RaajjeTV from Maldives Broadcasting Commission (BroadCom).

The Ministry, in a statement on Wednesday, underscored that persons with disabilities are granted special protection under Article 35 of the Maldivian constitution and all international conventions which Maldives is a party to. The Ministry stressed that the rights of individuals with disabilities must be respected, and they are entitled to a dignified and independent life under the constitution.

Furthermore, the Ministry, citing Article 53 of the Child Rights Protection Act prohibited speaking in a manner that infringes upon the rights of children and encourage acts they may infringe upon their rights. All actions that could infringe the rights and the dignity of children are also prohibited under the constitution and all international conventions, added the Ministry.

As such, the Ministry, citing all actions infringing the rights and dignity of children and persons with disabilities are prohibited, expressed concern over commentary in RaajjeTV’s ‘Kaalaabaisaa’ program broadcasted last Monday referring to children with disabilities, particularly targeted towards, children with autism and down syndrome, in a manner that infringes their dignity.

The Ministry described the act as an obstruction to efforts to ensure special protection for persons with disabilities and foster a society that is caring and kind towards such individuals.

Henceforth, Ministry said they have requested actions against RaajjeTV from BroadCom, as prescribed by the law.  

In their statement, the Ministry advised to ensure all arrangements in the society are arranged in a manner that guarantees the rights and dignity of those in the society accorded special protection, care and love.

The Ministry also advised against any action that infringes longstanding care and love accorded to such individuals in the media.

Notably, RaajjeTV has issued an apology for the commentary in their program targeted towards children with disabilities.