Maharashtra Rolls Out New Rules for NGO working for welfare of persons with disabilities

The Maharashtra government has released a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for registering, overseeing, and renewing Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) dedicated to the welfare, development, and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.

New Framework for NGO Oversight

The Maharashtra government recently introduced a standard operating procedure (SOP). This framework is for registering, monitoring, and renewing non-governmental organizations and institutions. These bodies are involved in the welfare, development, and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities. The Department of Disability Welfare issued a government resolution (GR) announcing this important decision. Registration is compulsory for all organizations working in disability welfare and rehabilitation. This is according to sections 49-53 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

Ensuring Transparency and Accountability

The new SOP aims to promote uniformity, transparency, and accountability. This applies to how civil society organizations in this sector operate. The commissioner for disability welfare is now the designated competent authority under the Act. Under these new guidelines, institutions must be registered. This must be under the Societies Registration Act, the Bombay Public Trusts Act, or section 8 of the Companies Act.

Key Requirements and Registration Process

Their explicit goals must include empowerment, training, research, and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities. They also need to show they have enough staff and financial capacity. Accessibility and compliance with other prescribed norms are also required, the GR noted. Registration applications and all necessary documents go to the district-level authority. This body conducts a preliminary review before forwarding them to the commissioner. A district inspection committee will review all proposals. They must submit their report within 30 days. Approval grants a one-year registration certificate and a unique institution ID.

Monitoring and Renewal Mandates

Organizations must apply for renewal at least 60 days before their current registration expires. They must also submit annual reports and audited financial statements yearly, the GR directed. Every registered organization will undergo inspection at least once a year. Registration can be cancelled if rules are broken. This includes violating government or court orders. It also covers misusing funds or failing to benefit persons with disabilities. Financial irregularities or exploitation instances can also lead to revocation, the GR stated.