The results of census he was referring to were that of underreported differently-abled people living in the country
KARACHI: Recently, I met a visually-impaired friend of mine after a long time. While we were updating each other on our lives and discussing work, he asked what I thought about the 2017 census results. The results he was specifically referring to were that of the underreported differently-abled people living in the country. His need to ask me that in a generic conversation about work we were having made me realise how hurt he felt about this underrepresentation. The same data that for many is insignificant to ponder upon, it is alienating our differently-abled and equal citizens of the country.
Political parties in Sindh, the MQM and the PPP, have voiced their concerns over the population count result in the province, which they assume has deliberately been understated. But none have spoken about the huge underrepresentation of our differently-abled people who are already finding it hard to get formal education and jobs. And this underrepresentation will only further undermine the quota they have been assigned to better their lives.
Saim Ali
Published in The Express Tribune, September 20th, 2017.
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