ISLAMABAD: The Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI) has urged the federal and provincial governments to develop respectful words aimed at replacing derogatory ones currently being used for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in official communication and documentation.

In a letters addressed to the prime minister and chief ministers of the four provinces the CPDI Executive Director Mukhtar Ahmad Ali highlighted the urgency of the issue, stating, “the language we use shapes our perceptions and attitudes. Using derogatory terms for persons with disabilities not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes but also marginalises a significant segment of our population. It is imperative that we adopt language that respects their dignity and humanity.”

The letter underscores several problematic terms and phrases which are used by officials and politicians in official communications, in political rallies and in TV talk shows such as Andhay (Blind) term, used to describe individuals with visual impairments, equates disability with ignorance and stupidity, reinforcing negative stereotypes.

“Another word Behray aur Gungay (deaf and dumb) is used to refer to individuals with speech and hearing impairments, are disrespectful and perpetuate harmful biases.

It is also said that Yeah Tu Andhon Ko Bhi Nazar Aata Hai. This phrase further marginalises persons with visual impairments by suggesting that even those who are blind can understand a given argument, implying a lack of intelligence,“ it stated.

Additionally, the communication highlights the linguistic insensitivity in the terminology used by entities such as Nadra and Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). Terms like “mentally retarded”, “deaf and mute” and “crippled” are outdated and deeply offensive.

Mukhtar Ahmad Ali said: “Words matter. It is crucial that we update our official language to be respectful and inclusive, reflecting the dignity of all individuals.”

It has been requested that comprehensive guidelines be issued to ensure respectful language in both verbal communication and official correspondence. Specific recommendations include replacing derogatory terms with respectful alternatives such as “people with physical impairments,” “people with speech and hearing impairments,” and “people with mental health conditions”.

Enclosed with the letters is a list of commonly used words, phrases, and idioms that are detrimental to the cause of persons with disabilities.

Published in Dawn, May 21st, 2024