Supreme Court Ruling Sets New Standards for Disability Portrayal in Hindi Cinema

The Supreme Court of India has issued a landmark ruling to end the ridicule of differently abled individuals in Hindi cinema. The court's guidelines aim to curb misleading portrayals and discriminatory language. Advocates hope this will foster a more inclusive and empathetic representation of disabilities in the media.

The Supreme Court of India has issued a landmark ruling to end the ridicule of differently abled individuals in mainstream Hindi cinema, a prevalent issue where impairments have often been used for unkind humor. The court's recent guidelines aim to curb misleading portrayals and promote empathy.

The apex court emphasized that stereotyping differently abled persons perpetuates discrimination. Filmmakers have been urged to refrain from using derogatory terms like 'crippled' and 'spastic.' This verdict follows a petition initiated by Nipun Malhotra, who emphasizes the fine line between creating awareness through humor and mocking disabilities.

Activist lawyer Gaurav Bansal praised the court's humane approach but called for proactive government action. Examples from cinema history, like 'Golmaal' and 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi,' highlight the need for change. Advocates believe these new guidelines will foster a positive shift in how disabilities are portrayed in visual media.

(With inputs from agencies.)