Reflecting on My Invitation to Rashtrapati Bhavan: The Need for Tactile Communication Awareness for the Deafblind
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I would like to share my recent experience and feedback. I was honored to receive an invitation from Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President’s House, to attend the Independence Day celebration on the 15th of August, 2024, in New Delhi. The event was attended by many achievers with disabilities, like myself, in the ceremonial hall. The campus was vast, with multiple gates, and security was tight, including numerous police officers. We entered through Gate No. 35 but were not allowed to use our phones once inside.
We were seated while other non-disabled attendees stood, waiting for the President, Vice President, and Prime Minister of India to arrive. I was accompanied by my professional tactile signing interpreters, Ms. Manisha Sharma and Ms. Sarah Sharma. When our Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi, entered the hall, he was engaged in conversation with several ministers and foreign dignitaries, exchanging greetings.
Due to strict security measures, I was not allowed to shake hands with the Prime Minister, which was disappointing, especially as a deafblind achiever who relies on tactile communication. It became evident that many people, including high-ranking officials, were unfamiliar with tactile signing—a method of communication through touch that is essential for individuals like me who cannot see, hear, or speak. At one point, it seemed as though people misunderstood my use of tactile signing with my interpreters, possibly thinking we were behaving strangely because of our disabilities. The situation was somewhat amusing in hindsight, as they might have thought we were fighting or dancing.
Despite these challenges, the event was excellent, and I enjoyed the refreshments, coffee, and snacks provided. I took the opportunity to educate others about the deafblind community and the work of SEDB India. Unfortunately, I could not bring my notepad and pen due to strict security protocols, which further complicated communication.
I found it frustrating that the security officers did not allow me to touch any VIPs, as touch is crucial for me to understand what is happening around me. This experience highlights the need for greater advocacy and awareness of tactile communication for deafblind individuals in India. Touch is not a bad idea; it is a vital tool for us to interact with the world.
I am deeply grateful to my tactile signing interpreters for advocating on my behalf and to the team from DEPWD under MSJE, Government of India, for their support and encouragement in allowing me to attend this event for the first time.
Thank you all for your continued support. I am hopeful that in the future, more people will learn how to effectively communicate with deafblind individuals. I also want to express my thanks to Anubha for introducing me to the fan wrestler, Mr. Virendra.
Yours sincerely,
Zamir Dhale
Founder, Director, and Consultant
SEDB India
