Srinagar, July 2: A disabled youth, Nadeem Ahmad of uptown here has been moving from pillar to post for his livelihood.
Ahmad, in his 20s, coming from an underprivileged family from Batmaloo’s Firdousabad, is the lone son of Mohammad Ashraf Bhat, a mechanic.
“I have been pushed to the wall. I approached each and every platform. I am seeking a job that can fulfill my basic requirements. Amid huge inflation, my father is hardly able to fulfill the needs of our family,” said Nadeem.
Nadeem, a 12th pass out, is the only son in Bhat’s five children. Despite being specially-abled since his childhood, he has earned a space for himself.
“For me disability was never a stumbling block. I ran errands, and even worked in pharmaceutical company Mellow Enterprises. I have also been a part of Chotay Taray Foundation,” Nadeem said.
“I stood third in open state Taekwon-do championship-2013. I took part in the yoga camp organised by the yoga society of Kashmir. I have excelled everywhere. I passed 12th with good marks. My work was acknowledged by everyone.”
Nadeem said he was fond of drawing and has been taking part in the art competitions organised from time to time in his school.
“I did my 10th from Mehboob Public High School (MPHS). In 2004, I got an opportunity to take part in the art competition. I was awarded Konaseena Chitrakala Parishad (KCP) award for the year 2004 by KCP,” he said.
Nadeem said, “I fail to understand as to why the people are not supportive. Wherever I went, I received poor response. Unfortunately, disability is met with discrimination everywhere.”
The Commissioner concerned, Mohammad Iqbal Lone, could not be contacted for his comments.
