Blind Persons’ Association Accuses Institute of Unjust Expulsion of Visually Impaired Orphan
Allegations of Mismanagement at Dhalli Institute
Munish Sood
Shimla
The Blind Persons’ Association has raised serious allegations against the management of the Institute for the Children with Special Ability (Boys) in Dhalli, claiming they unlawfully expelled a visually impaired orphan as retaliation for highlighting mismanagement and poor living conditions at the facility.
Child Punished for Speaking Out
During a press conference, Shobha Ram Garg, the President of the Blind Persons’ Association, condemned the expulsion of Birpal, labeling it as “harassment of the worst kind.”
“This is a blatant case of punishing a child for telling the truth,” Garg stated. “Instead of addressing his valid concerns, the management chose to remove him mid-session.”
Birpal was reportedly transferred to the National Association for the Blind (NAB) facility in Kullu in early August without any prior notice, shortly after he raised issues regarding inadequate facilities and alleged misuse of resources at the Dhalli institute.
Ignored Memorandum by Authorities
Garg disclosed that the Association submitted a comprehensive memorandum to the state government on August 11, 2025, requesting immediate intervention. This memorandum was directed to the Social Justice Department, the Child Rights Commission, and the Chief Minister’s office.
“To date, no action has been taken. The inaction of the authorities is extremely concerning,” Garg remarked.
Media Access Denied
Journalists attempting to visit both the Dhalli institute and the NAB facility in Kullu were reportedly denied access to Birpal.
“If there’s nothing to hide, why is the media being obstructed? This suggests a clear attempt to conceal corruption and mismanagement,” Garg alleged.
Long-Standing Issues of Abuse
The Association claims that the Dhalli institute has been plagued by discrimination, mental harassment, wrongful expulsions, and administrative corruption for a long time.
“These institutions are meant to protect and nurture children with special needs. Instead, they have turned into places of fear and exploitation,” Garg asserted.
Demands for Justice
The Blind Persons’ Association has made several demands to the state government:
- A thorough, impartial investigation into the institute’s operations, with the Association’s involvement.
- Immediate suspension of Principal Dharmapal Rana to ensure a fair inquiry.
- Reinstatement of Birpal at the Dhalli institute with guaranteed safety.
- Mental health counseling for all students.
- Establishment of an independent monitoring body to protect children’s rights.
“We will not rest until Birpal is reinstated, the responsible parties are held accountable, and the dignity of every disabled child is upheld,” Garg declared.
Violation of Rights
Garg characterized the incident as a breach of child protection laws, disability rights, and the fundamental right to freedom of expression.
“If a child cannot voice concerns about irregularities without facing retaliation, what hope is there for accountability?” he questioned.
Awaiting Official Response
As of the latest updates, neither the Social Justice and Empowerment Department nor the management of the Dhalli institute has provided an official statement. The state Child Rights Commission has also remained silent.
The Blind Persons’ Association has warned of escalating protests and legal action, including approaching the National Human Rights Commission, if the situation is not addressed swiftly.