Dr. KS Rajanna, a stalwart in advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities, was stripped of his position as the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities unceremoniously by the Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka Congress government in 2015.
Having lost his arms and legs to polio during childhood, Dr. Rajanna’s life story is one of remarkable perseverance. Despite his physical challenges, he pursued education, earning a diploma in mechanical engineering. His achievements extend beyond academia, as he clinched gold in discus throw and silver in swimming at the 2002 Paralympics, proudly representing India.
Beyond his personal accomplishments, Dr. Rajanna is an exemplary entrepreneur, providing employment opportunities for over 350 individuals, many of whom share his disability. His commitment to service led him to become the first differently-abled Karnataka State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in 2013.
During the Padma awards ceremony, Dr. Rajanna’s determination was palpable as he declined assistance, showcasing his self-reliant spirit. His story resonates deeply, inspiring others to overcome obstacles and contribute meaningfully to society.
In a touching moment captured on video, Dr. Rajanna’s brief exchange with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah underscored his indomitable spirit and remarkable achievements. Shared by BJP MP Tejasvi Surya, the video encapsulates Dr. Rajanna’s journey from adversity to triumph, earning him the title of a true People’s Padma awardee.
Lost hands & legs to polio as a kid, doesn't give up, qualifies as mechanical engineer, goes on to win gold in paralympics, turns entrepreneur to give employment to many disabled people.
He is Shri KS Rajanna from Karnataka, incredibly determined and resilient #PeoplesPadma pic.twitter.com/NUrOsCg4lp
— Tejasvi Surya (ಮೋದಿಯ ಪರಿವಾರ) (@Tejasvi_Surya) May 9, 2024
Among the 132 individuals honored with Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, Dr. Rajanna stands as a shining example of resilience and service.
Failure To Support PwD By Karnataka Congress
The Siddaramaiah government in 2015 abruptly concluded KS Rajanna, the state’s first differently-abled commissioner for persons with disabilities and replaced with Kamalakshi Rajanna, a Congress worker. K S Rajanna, appointed in September 2013, merely served 16 months of his three-year term before being replaced without prior notice or explanation. Rajanna, who lost his limbs to polio in childhood, was widely praised for representing the interests of differently-abled individuals in Karnataka.
However, on 16 January 2015, a notification from the state government appointed Kamalakshi Rajanna, a Congress worker, as the new commissioner. This sudden decision drew criticism from the differently-abled community across the state, who deemed it unjust. During his tenure, K S Rajanna reigned in government officials including secretaries and department heads actively pursued various initiatives, including enforcing the Supreme Court directive on implementing the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995. He advocated for measures like free entry to Vidhana Soudha, free bus passes, parking facilities, grievance redressal cells, and enhancing job and education opportunities for the differently-abled.
Rajanna, functioning as a quasi-judicial officer, ensured justice for the disabled through the commission’s court proceedings and initiated a state-wide survey to drive reforms. His surprise inspections of public facilities aimed to ensure they were disability-friendly. Even now, the unexpected end of Rajanna’s term on January 16, 2015 remains fresh in memory, celebrated for his unwavering determination to serve his community.
(With Inputs From IE & Bangalore Mirror)
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