MP urges real-time sign language interpretation for Parl proceedings
Praveen Khandelwal, BJP MP from Chandni Chowk, has written to Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, proposing the introduction of real-time Indian Sign Language (ISL) interpretation for all Parliamentary proceedings.
The request comes ahead of the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament and seeks to make debates, speeches and official addresses fully accessible to citizens who are deaf or hard of hearing.
In his letter, Khandelwal highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the government has prioritised transparency, accessibility and inclusion through initiatives such as Digital India and Accessible India.
He said providing ISL interpretation in Parliament would further the vision of Viksit Bharat and strengthen participatory democracy for millions of citizens.
Citing Census 2011 figures and more recent WHO estimates, Khandelwal noted that nearly 63 million Indians have significant hearing loss, with many relying on Indian Sign Language as their primary means of communication.
He proposed that all Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha proceedings, including debates, speeches, special addresses and official media briefings, be accompanied by high-quality, simultaneous ISL interpretation, clearly visible on Sansad TV, Parliament’s website and digital platforms.
Khandelwal also acknowledged the Government’s efforts in this area, pointing to the establishment of the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre in 2015. He said extending ISL interpretation to live parliamentary proceedings would build on these achievements and fulfil India’s obligations under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Urging Minister Rijiju to initiate consultations with relevant ministries, Parliament secretariats and experts, the Chandni Chowk MP also offered his assistance in connecting the government with civil society organisations and accessibility professionals who have championed this demand for years.
Delhi