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Last Updated on June 9, 2022 by Team THIP
In certain countries, epilepsy is considered a disability, while in others it is not.
In India, epilepsy is not considered a disability while in other countries such as the USA, it is considered a disability as it can cause intellectual disability in a person.
According to Neurology Asia 2004, “In India, epilepsy does not fall under the ‘disability’ category. We also do not have a disability discrimination act.”
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 recognizes Chronic Neurological Conditions (CNC) as disabilities, but it does not explicitly mention epilepsy. It only mentions Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis under the category of CNC. Therefore, till now the status of epilepsy as a disability in India is not clear.
The medical assessment board may consider severe epilepsy under CNC but it is not mandated by the law.
However, certain causes of epilepsy such as cerebral palsy and traumatic head injury and consequences of epilepsy such as cognitive impairment are recognised in the Act.
In America, epilepsy is considered a disability and it has a listing in the Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book. For epilepsy to qualify for disability benefits, it must meet the criteria of the Blue Book listing.
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