The Delhi High Court has formally asked the Central Government to respond to a petition that advocates for the compulsory inclusion of Indian Sign Language (ISL) interpretation in the public showing of feature films. This request follows a plea that was brought forth by India Signing Hands, which was represented by Advocates Amritesh Mishra and Amar Jain. The notice was issued by Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, who has directed the Centre to prepare a counter affidavit within a period of three weeks.

The petitioner aims for ISL interpretation to be added as an essential accessibility feature alongside closed and open captioning for individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. Justice Sharma has also allowed the petitioner three additional weeks following the Centre’s reply to submit a rejoinder.

The case has been scheduled for further review on September 2, categorised under matters related to differently-abled individuals.

Petition Seeks Amendments to Accessibility Guidelines

The petition specifically requests that the Union Government amend the “Guidelines on Accessibility Standards in the Public Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema Theatres,” which were established on March 15, 2024. The amendment would include mandatory ISL interpretation, which the petitioner argues is crucial for adhering to Section 42(ii) of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

The plea not only calls for the modification of these guidelines but also demands that necessary measures be taken by the Union of India and relevant authorities. This includes ensuring the implementation and enforcement of ISL interpretation throughout public viewings, streaming services, and various other media formats across the country.

The petitioner has also requested that the costs associated with the litigation be covered, reinforcing the importance of the matter at hand.

Government’s Response and Next Steps

The Union of India, appearing through its Senior Panel Counsel, acknowledged the notice before the court. Justice Sharma instructed that the Centre submit its formal reply within the stipulated three-week period. An advance copy of this response is to be shared with the legal representatives of the petitioner.

Following the government’s reply, the petitioner has been granted the option to file a rejoinder within three weeks. This structured timeline aims to facilitate an efficient resolution to the issues raised in the petition.

The upcoming hearing on September 2 is poised to examine the implications of ISL interpretation in film accessibility for differently-abled individuals. This case has the potential to influence future policies regarding the inclusion of sign language in various media formats, thereby enhancing accessibility for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community in India.

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