NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has issued a landmark ruling aimed at ending the derisive portrayal of differently abled individuals in mainstream Hindi cinema. Historically, impairments such as visual, speech, and physical disabilities have often been used for unkind humor, perpetuating stereotypes and discrimination.

The apex court’s decision calls on filmmakers to avoid misleading and derogatory portrayals, explicitly banning terms like “crippled” and “spastic.” This verdict is seen as a “game changer” by activists and lawyers who hope it will foster greater respect and equality.

Nipun Malhotra, who filed the petition leading to the Supreme Court’s decision, emphasized that while humor can be a powerful tool for spreading awareness about disability, it should be used responsibly and respectfully.