Every child deserves the right to thrive, yet autistic children in Nepal are denied this basic promise due to a lack of autism-specific laws.
According to the National Institute of Medical Health, Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. It is estimated worldwide that about 1 in 100 children have autism. The Autism Care Nepal Society is estimated to have 300,000 autistic children living in Nepal. The need for autism-specific legislation and comparable legal protections in Nepal is urgent given the enormous number of autistic children that is increasing daily. Nepal has lagged in terms of autism-specific regulations and protections, which has created a significant gap between reality checks. The needs and desires of autistic children have been left unmet, depriving them of socialization, education, and health care.
The Reality of Autism in Nepal
Nepal has made strides in addressing disability rights, with policies like the 2074 Act relating to the person with Disability and initiatives promoting inclusive education. However, these frameworks often fail to address the unique needs of autistic individuals, who require specialized interventions and accommodations. Autism is frequently misunderstood in Nepalese society, with many attributing it to bad karma or lack of discipline in their former lives. This stigma exacerbates the isolation and discrimination faced by autistic individuals and their families.
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Since Nepal lacks a centralized method to monitor the prevalence of autism, it is challenging to promote policies that are specifically targeted. Because of this, people with autism frequently go undetected or receive the wrong diagnosis, losing out on important early intervention chances. The expense of enrolling these children in particular institutions and the therapy fees are so costly that even families in Nepal with average incomes cannot afford them. Instead of addressing the real issues that families and individuals confront, this issue has been about generating more profits and money through increased fees and greater therapy costs. For this reason, legal intervention is required in this subject.
Why Autism-Specific Legal Protections Matter
Nepal must enact legislation specifically addressing autism to meet the special difficulties that people on the autistic spectrum and their families encounter, which are not sufficiently addressed by the Act. Since autism is a unique developmental illness, policies that focus on early diagnosis, specialized education, customized therapy, and vocational training are necessary to help people reach their full potential. Laws that require awareness campaigns, professional training, and accessible services are essential since stigma and low public knowledge further isolate people with autism. Legislation tailored to the needs of people with autism will not only protect their rights but also encourage their active engagement in society, creating a more welcoming and equal atmosphere in Nepal. Due to a lack of knowledge and resources, many autistic children in Nepal are not allowed to attend regular schools. Laws pertaining specifically to autism may require the creation of inclusive education-promoting individualized education plans (IEPs) and teacher training. Multidisciplinary care, including behavioral therapies, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, is frequently necessary for autism. Access to and affordability of these services can be guaranteed via a legislative framework. Furthermore, Nationwide awareness initiatives to dispel myths about autism can be fueled by legislation.
Learning from Global Practices
Nepal can take a cue from countries like the United Kingdom, with its Autism Act 2009, and the United States, through the Autism CARES Act, which has passed legislation specifically addressing autism. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in the United States ensures that children with disabilities, including autism, get a free and suitable public education.
Nepal should modify these models to fit its socioeconomic situation. A legal framework can incorporate important measures including the creation of autistic resource centers, government funding for therapy, and training for medical personnel.
A Call to Action
The absence of laws specifically addressing autism hinders Nepal's progress towards inclusion. Nepal can enable people with autism to realize their full potential and promote a neurodivergent society by developing policies that address this issue. Despite the Act, the particular laws and regulations in this domain would undoubtedly and significantly contribute to the special needs and accommodations needed for people with autism which is not just a legal imperative but a moral one. A society is judged by how it treats its most vulnerable members and by taking bold steps to protect the rights of autistic individuals, Nepal can move closer to becoming a truly inclusive nation where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and the needy get the true service.
