In a step toward ensuring the well-being and holistic development of specially-abled children in the Union Territory of Ladakh, Justice Tashi Rabstan, Acting Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh, visited the only Government Inclusive School at Chuchot Yokma, Leh, on September 21. The visit focused on reviewing the quality of care, educational standards, and the infrastructure available to students requiring specialized attention.

Justice Tashi Rabstan, accompanied by M.K. Sharma, Principal Secretary, and Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary of the J&K Legal Services Authority (also in charge of the Juvenile Justice Committee), was warmly received by Phunstog Angmo, Secretary of DLSA Leh; Chemit Yourgiyal, Secretary of DLSA Kargil; Nema Stanzin, Deputy Chief LADC, Leh; Sonam Wangchuk, Chief Education Officer; and Mohsin Ali Khan, Headmaster, along with Ladol, the school's Sign Language Special Teacher, other staff members, and students.

During his visit, Justice Tashi inspected the school's infrastructure, including classrooms, the activity center, residential facilities, and the multipurpose hall. He praised the school administration for creating an inclusive environment where all children, regardless of ability, can learn and grow. He acknowledged the school's efforts in ensuring that students with special needs are provided not only with quality education but also access to extracurricular activities such as cultural programs, sports, and arts. These initiatives, he noted, play a crucial role in building self-confidence and fostering holistic development. Specially-abled students also presented a cultural program during the visit.

Justice Tashi reviewed the residential facilities catering to students from distant villages and commended the arrangements made for their accommodation. He urged the school management to continue offering a safe and nurturing environment and stressed the importance of regular medical check-ups. He also directed authorities to maintain consistent healthcare services, including therapeutic support and counseling, to enhance the children's overall well-being.

With a total strength of 98 students, 35 of whom are specially-abled, the school employs four special teachers to provide tailored education. Justice Tashi interacted with both staff and students, noting the importance of the therapy sessions, which are held four days a week and include occupational and physical therapy to address the students' unique needs.

During the interaction, staff raised concerns about the shortage of teaching staff, speech therapists, physiotherapists, drivers, hostel sweepers, and the need for a permanent warden. Justice Tashi assured them that these issues would be taken up with the UT Ladakh Administration for prompt resolution. He emphasized the need for continuous improvement in the care and support provided to the children, lauded the dedication of the teachers and management, and encouraged them to continue fostering an inclusive atmosphere where every child is valued and has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Justice Tashi also praised Lamo, the hostel warden, for her efforts in caring for the specially-abled children and fostering an inclusive learning environment. He assured the institution of continued support to enhance its facilities and programs. This visit marked a significant step in promoting inclusive education and highlighted the judiciary's commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by specially-abled children in Ladakh, reflecting broader efforts to support and empower marginalized sections of society.