Nilanjana Rambothu

I am seriously confused by the growing appreciation of "rewari culture" and the marketing of ableism in the name of autism advocacy.

When we speak about the right to dignity, it should mean creating accommodations that address the actual needs of individuals—not celebrating tokenism or projecting unrealistic narratives.

Autism is fundamentally different from many other disabilities because it affects communication, social understanding, behaviour, executive functioning, and adaptive living skills. While many people with physical disabilities have intact cognitive abilities and, with accessibility and skill-based support, can achieve independent living, individuals with profound autism often require lifelong support. Treating autism under the same policy framework as every other disability ignores these realities.

The ₹1,000 monthly assistance offered by governments in many states is symbolic at best. It neither ensures dignity nor addresses the lifelong financial burden carried by families. Therapy, medical care, behavioural support, communication interventions, respite care, and future residential planning require sustained investment—not token welfare.

Today, inclusion is increasingly being diluted. Some organisations and social media influencers project exceptional success stories while failing to acknowledge the needs of those with profound autism and high support requirements. Representation should not come at the cost of invisibilising those who cannot speak for themselves.

What the autism community needs is not motivational marketing but meaningful policy:
• Modified tax relief for families raising autistic individuals.
• Long-term financial security and trust mechanisms.
• Accessible medical and therapeutic interventions.
• Legal safeguards for parents and caregivers.
• Lifetime support systems for individuals who may never live independently.

The greatest burden continues to fall on parents. They are expected to build financial security, arrange lifelong care, and plan for a future when they themselves are no longer there. Public policy should recognise this reality instead of assuming that one disability framework fits all.

Dignity is not achieved through slogans or social media campaigns. It is achieved when policies acknowledge the unique challenges of autism and provide families with the support they genuinely need.

Upcoming workshop on language and communication development. Then workshop on privacy.