These demands represent the most basic and essential needs of people with disabilities across Bangladesh. They have long been raised in writings, newspapers, and on social media. However, successive governments have failed to pay attention to these demands. Therefore, these proposals are now being presented to the interim government. The nine demands are as follows:

1. Increase in Disability Allowance:
Most persons with disabilities are financially disadvantaged. To improve their living standards, it is urgent to increase the disability allowance. The minimum allowance should be 5,000 BDT per month.

1(b). For persons with severe disabilities, we propose a minimum monthly allowance of 20,000 BDT.

2. Employment for Graduated Students with Disabilities:
A major challenge is the lack of employment opportunities for students with disabilities after completing higher education. The government must ensure mandatory job opportunities in government, private institutions, and commercial companies for graduates with disabilities. This will allow them to use their education and improve their living standards, ensuring that not a single graduate with a disability remains unemployed.

2(b). Arrangements must also be made to employ capable persons with disabilities in both government and private sectors.

3. Free Education:
Education is a fundamental right for students with disabilities. Yet, they often face financial barriers. Education should therefore be completely free for students with disabilities, ensuring equal opportunities.

3(b). Provide financial assistance through training so that persons with disabilities can engage in business and earn a living with dignity.

3(c). Improve the quality of education for persons with disabilities and ensure accessibility in all areas.

4. Business Loans for Entrepreneurship:
Providing business loans to persons with disabilities will help them succeed professionally, leading to economic independence and self-reliance.

5. Implementation of CRPD:
The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is an international treaty that protects the human rights of people with disabilities. Bangladesh must ensure the full implementation of this convention.

5(b). Reform the government’s Rules of Business to guarantee necessary facilities and opportunities for persons with disabilities.

6. Access to CSR Funds:
Allocations from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds must be ensured for the welfare of persons with disabilities. These funds can improve their living standards, healthcare, and educational opportunities.

6(b). Make CSR funding mandatory to strengthen self-organizations of persons with disabilities and advance their development.

6(c). Decentralize funds: Development and employment opportunities should not be limited to organizations in Dhaka district but spread to all districts, including rural areas, to empower persons with disabilities nationwide.

6(d). Ensure grants and assistance reach every district properly. Local-level distribution systems should be established so that aid is delivered fairly.

7. Capacity to Receive Foreign Donations:
Mechanisms should be developed to secure foreign donations through the government and NGOs for the welfare of persons with disabilities. The NGO registration and grant process for DPO (Disabled Persons’ Organizations) should be made easier.

8. Reserved Seats in the National Parliament:
Persons with disabilities should have guaranteed representation in parliament. On behalf of 25.5 million persons with disabilities in Bangladesh, we are demanding 15 reserved seats.

9. Separate Information Portal:
A dedicated portal should be created to provide information on government grants, projects, notices, and tenders related to DPOs. These should be available in audio, video (sign language), and written formats, either through the Ministry of Social Welfare or a separate portal.