LEGISLATIONS IN INDIA FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE DISABLED WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO MENTALLY CHALLENGED

Abstract

There is a dynamic relationship between the concept of mental illness, the treatment of the mentally ill and the law. In India, the National Mental Health Program (NMHP) was adopted in 1982 by the Central Council of Health. The program derived strategies for the provision of mental health care at each level of the system. From the primary level of health service there are various facilities to treat the mental patients. Even now because of lack of education, lack of medical treatment facility and utter social neglect, the mentally ill mostly remained condemned to their own fate. Such persons are facing very painful isolated existence even facing death.

 Mental illness is the term used to describe a tight bonded range of mental and emotional condition. When a man is incapable to manage his affairs in a situation, he is called lunatic or person with unsound mind. Mental health is a state of well-being where the individual realises his or her own abilities. The importance of mental health is being recognised by World Health Organisation (WHO). Today there is a better understanding about mental behavioural disorder, its magnitude and burden. Again there exist better and effective treatment and strategies for enhancing mental health through policy and service enhancements. At present, mentally disorder patients have a new scope for living productive lives in their own community.

Many legislative endeavours are made and are being made by the legislative bodies in such a manner that the rights of such people are carefully addressed. This paper in detail addresses all the essential areas that have to be keenly viewed and understood such that on recognising their rights they are no more treated as a bane.