Vacancy Crisis: Chief Commissioner for Disabilities Post Unfilled for Six Years

The government revealed that the key position of chief commissioner for persons with disabilities has been vacant for six years. Despite multiple advertisements since 2018, no suitable candidate has been found. The department secretary holds additional charge, with his term extended to 2025.

The post of chief commissioner for persons with disabilities, a significant role within the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, has remained vacant for nearly six years, according to government sources on Tuesday.

Union Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar highlighted in the Lok Sabha that the department secretary has been managing the additional responsibilities since January 2019, with an extension on his term lasting until January 31, 2025.

Repeated attempts to fill this crucial position have proven unsuccessful. Advertisements seeking candidates began in November 2018, with the latest issued on December 3. Despite 79 applications in 2018, 51 in 2020, and 28 in 2023, no candidate has met the selection committee's criteria. In response, a new vacancy notice has recently been posted online.

(With inputs from agencies.)