CHALLENGES AND BARRIERS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DISABILITY LAWS IN INDIA: A SOCIO-LEGAL ANALYSIS OF STRUCTURAL, INSTITUTIONAL and ATTITUDINAL IMPEDIMENTS

Abstract

The effective realization of disability rights in India continues to face significant structural, institutional and socio-legal challenges despite the progressive legislative framework established under contemporary statutes. This paper critically examines the multifaceted barriers that impede the meaningful implementation of disability laws, with particular focus on persons with mental disorders. It analyzes deficiencies in legal aid mechanisms, infrastructural inaccessibility, lack of professional awareness and specialized training and the persistent institutional and societal stigmas that undermine rights-based protections. The study further explores the complex interplay between administrative processes, entrenched social perceptions and normative legal standards, demonstrating how these interconnected factors dilute the transformative potential of existing legal frameworks. Special attention is given to procedural hurdles, bureaucratic delays, inadequate monitoring mechanisms and limited inter-sectoral coordination, which collectively restrict access to justice, healthcare and social security entitlements. By situating implementation gaps within a broader socio-legal context, the paper argues that legislative reform alone is insufficient without parallel investments in capacity building, sensitization of stakeholders, infrastructural accessibility and robust enforcement oversight. The paper concludes by proposing targeted reforms aimed at strengthening accountability mechanisms, enhancing professional competency and ensuring participatory monitoring frameworks.