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With deepfakes becoming a global threat, founders call for an increase in funding to women-led AI companies < Back Gender, Work, News Fund women AI founders NOW With deepfakes becoming a global threat, founders call for an increase in funding to women-led AI companies MMS Staff 23 Jul 2024 5-min read In what seems to be the latest in a string of gross misuse cases of AI technology, a teenage schoolboy from Victoria, Australia was arrested last month for allegedly generating and distributing deepfakes of his female classmates. The accused - who shared the images on social media - was caught by police, and soon released without charge. The incident has prompted renewed conversation around the gendered nature of the misuse of this technology and how concrete action can be taken to ensure the safety of girls and women. This is also not the first time AI-generated deepfakes have made their way into schools. Similar events have unfolded in Beverly Hills, California, Spain and New Jersey. And nudes aren’t the only kind of deepfake imagery being made. The last couple of years have seen AI-generated deepfake videos of political speeches, such as this one featuring Duwaraka Prabhakaran, daughter of Tamil Tiger militant chief Velupillai Prabhakaran, who - at the time of the release of this video - had died more than a decade ago. Then late last year, a deepfake video featuring Indian actor Rashmika Mandanna went viral. The actor subsequently tweeted: “...if this happened to me when I was in school or college, I genuinely can’t imagine how could I (sic) ever tackle this.” And more recently, the content creator and actor Bhuvan Bam saw his face in a deepfake, promoting betting in sport. The actor was quick to put out a clarification saying it wasn’t him but a deepfake, and that his team had already filed a police complaint alerting the authorities. On July 8, this story in the Deccan Chronicle mentioned that the Indian government plans to introduce a bill in parliament to put a check on AI technology and regulate online content. ‘According to sources, the bill aims to explore better ways to use technology and develop legal frameworks to address challenges posed by deepfakes and AI-generated content, reflecting the growing global concern about these issues,’ the article said. However, culpability, it seems, doesn’t rest on the creators of deepfake apps. ‘These platforms make money from platforming content but take no responsibility for doing so,’ says the Guardian . Moreover, it has for long now been amply clear that the current landscape of these spaces is marked by a dominance of male perspectives. This story by Routledge points out how this affects the safety of women and girls in the digital world. The emergence of AI-driven deepfake technology has provided perpetrators with frightening new avenues for sexual exploitation, violation and abuse. With the help of this new technology, offenders can seamlessly blend and manipulate different visuals and audio clips taken from social media platforms, cameras placed in public, or private, settings, hacked devices, discussion boards, pornography websites, and other online spaces to create lifelike explicit content.  What is especially alarming is the sheer scale and scope of this phenomenon. Because of this new technology, perpetrators have a nearly limitless capacity to exploit anyone across the globe who has ever been photographed or captured on video. Such malicious content is at risk of being continuously shared, traded, consumed, distributed, and further manipulated by other men participating in these crimes. So, while recent developments in AI tools may be exciting to many, for women and girls in particular, there is a range of current and potential disadvantages and violations. Entrepreneur Cindy Gallop - who runs the crowdsourced social sex video sharing platform MakeLoveNotPorn - reacted to the Victoria news with this LinkedIn post, which reads: “FUND. FEMALE. AI. FOUNDERS. Because that’s the only way we can scale solutions to this.” Gallop’s call for funding for women entrepreneurs working in AI is a growing chorus of voices demanding a more equitable funding - and representation - landscape in AI. AI gender bias is all too common , resulting from skewed data and underrepresentation and misrepresentation of women, which has a bearing on machine learning technology and algorithms, further perpetuating biases, which, in less severe cases manifest in the form of denied opportunities to women, and, in more severe cases, as gender-based violence in the form of deepfakes. This 2019 research shows that women are the primary victims of deepfakes. And a related, concerning trend is the growing use of deepfake technology as a tool of revenge. ‘96% of this type of online videos were of intimate or sexual nature. The victims were primarily women, often actresses, musicians, and to a lesser extent, media professionals. In contrast, videos without explicit content primarily targeted men (61 percent), mainly politicians and corporate figures,’ the study says. While discussions around protecting women’s safety in the AI era are multifaceted, one place to begin could be to have more women representation in tech companies and AI teams, partner up with more women founders, especially in AI, and use feminist data practices to help fill data gaps where women aren’t correctly - or adequately - represented. However, it’s also clear that AI is a space dominated by powerful, wealthy men who, as Gallop puts it, “have no intention of welcoming, listening to, funding, and working with women leaders, founders, technologists, and scientists whose views are not completely aligned with and preferably subordinate to theirs.” “The young white male founders of the giant tech platforms that dominate our lives today are not the primary targets (online or offline) of harassment, abuse, racism, sexual assault, violence, rape, revenge porn. So they didn’t, and they don’t, proactively design for the prevention of any of those things. Those of us who are at risk every single day — women, Black people, people of color (sic), LGBTQ, disabled — design safe spaces, and safe experiences,” she says. Gallop’s thinking and her approach to AI clearly goes to show how data and machine learning technologies not working with datasets that are heavily influenced by the white man’s view of the world can produce AI technology coded with algorithms that ensure women’s safety - both online and offline. Time to rewrite the rulebook - can AI become a tool for empowerment, or will it forever be coded with bias? Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Season 1 of our first original series that brings you stories of neurodivergent and disabled people from across the spectrum. < Back Series Alag Hain Kam Nahi (Different Not Less) Season 1 of our first original series that brings you stories of neurodivergent and disabled people from across the spectrum. It was mid-2022. Aditi and Aalap had just discovered their neurodivergent identities, and were speaking to other neurodivergent individuals and their caregivers to better understand ways to take up space. A team member suggested turning the entire journey into a series so that it could help other late-discovered neurodivergents on their paths to self-acceptance and love. And that's how 'Alag Hain Kam Nahi' was born, an ode to the international #DifferentNotLess disability movement. Shot May through August, 2022, the series spotlights the richly varied lives of six neurodivergent and disabled individuals, and invites viewers on a journey illuminating the vibrant experiences of its protagonists, effectively challenging societal perspectives on neurodivergence and disability. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZiKggZujcE Meet Nehal Tiwari, a Mumbai-based analyst and stone painter. Diagnosed with autism at two, Nehal's story is a testament to the benefits of early intervention and community support. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhZ2Hb2z8y0 Meet Savitri Gupta, IIT Bombay's first visually impaired female Ph.D. student. Savitri is a human rights researcher and advocates for orphan and disabled communities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BofHUMffxHA Meet Vir Kapoor, a17-year-old coder, baker, and aspiring model. Diagnosed with autism at age 2, Vir welcomes us into his world of Meccano, puzzles, robotics, and music. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0reJgv8whw Meet Risshan Patil, a 16-year-old autistic musician-singer diagnosed at two-and-a-half years old, Risshan has been singing and dancing since a very early age, and was a member of the Six Pack Band 2.0 by Yashraj films. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_oKtCKp_4o Meet Aarti Nagarkar, a 35-year-old autistic woman and the boss woman at Cafe Arpan. She sings, draws, loves Jimmy Fallon, and enjoys hosting people at her cafe. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back ORIGINALS

Newly opened Sagar Express will empower neurodivergent individuals through meaningful employment < Back News, Neurodiversity, Work Delhi High Court welcomes neurodivergent run cafe Newly opened Sagar Express will empower neurodivergent individuals through meaningful employment MMS Staff 7 Jul 2024 2-min read Starting next week, the Delhi High Court will see the opening of Sagar Express, a cafe run entirely by neurodivergent individuals. Aimed at creating meaningful employment opportunities centred around a strengths-based approach to neurodivergence, the cafe is set to break down societal barriers and stigma that persist in society about the capabilities of neurodivergent individuals. The initiative is spearheaded by Senior Advocate Ravi Gupta, chairman of the Shaurya Foundation Trust (SFT), who has a deeply personal connection to the cause. “The main motive of opening this cafe is to empower such persons financially,” Gupta shared in this Indian Express article, emphasising the importance of financial independence for neurodivergent individuals. Upon its opening, Sagar Express will be staffed by six neurodivergent individuals including those who are autistic. From managing the counter and handling sales to serving South Indian cuisine, these employees will be at the heart of the cafe's operations. The cafe, a collaborative effort with the well-known restaurant chain Sagar Ratna, is the culmination of two years of intensive staff training. “The majority of persons that will run the cafe will be those with neurodiversity… they’ll be given managerial positions,” Gupta said. The decision to have neurodivergent individuals in leadership roles ensures that the staff not only gain employment but also take on significant responsibilities in the organisation, showcasing their skills and competencies in a real-world setting. It goes to show that neurodivergent individuals are competent leaders. Gupta's journey into supporting neurodivergent adults began in 2002 when he and his wife Rani adopted a boy named Shaurya. Diagnosed autistic before his second birthday, Shaurya became the inspiration for the couple's dedication to this cause. Since 2011, SFT has been actively working to support and train neurodivergent adults. The opening of Sagar Express is another decisive step towards inclusive employment. Not only will it demonstrate that neurodivergent individuals can excel in diverse roles, it'll also serve as a model for other organisations to follow. Some other restaurants & cafes run by disabled and neurodivergent people in India include: Cafe Arpan by Yash Charitable Trust https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_oKtCKp_4o Soho House Mumbai https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2m3Ogmpfcg The Chocolate Room https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_NK3EK6Xao Mitti Cafe Aditi's Corner https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CN_U6aulgec KFC India https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JFCUzcS07w Mirchi & Mime Madeira & Mime Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Understanding our world’s most urgent environmental challenges < Back Climate 8 things to know about climate change this World Environment Day Understanding our world’s most urgent environmental challenges MMS Staff 6 Jun 2024 2-min read This World Environment Day, it’s time to get real about climate change. Our planet is hitting some scary milestones, and - basically - it’s now or never. Here are eight climate change facts that we can't ignore any longer: Record temperatures: Seriously, 2023 was the hottest year on record. The heat is not just uncomfortable — it’s proving deadly for people and the planet. This trend is like a giant warning sign that we need to cut down on greenhouse gases. Check out the stats and freaky details on the EU’s climate monitoring service . If this doesn’t signify a clear and pressing need to address global warming, we don’t know what will. 2. Rising sea levels: As polar ice caps continue to melt, sea levels are rising at an alarming rate, threatening to reshape our coastlines and displace coastal communities around the world. Head to NASA’s sea level change portal to find out more. 3. Increased weather extremes: From devastating hurricanes and wildfires to severe droughts, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are going up, showing us how important it is to have resilient infrastructure and emergency preparedness. These incidents are chaotic and costly. Get the full low down here: NOAA’s extreme weather tracker . 4. Biodiversity loss: Climate change is a big threat to biodiversity. Animals and plants around the world are in serious danger. As habitats disappear faster than free Wi-Fi, entire species are going extinct, and countless others are at an increased risk of extinction due to habitat loss and changing ecosystems. Learn more at the World Wildlife Fund website. 5. Economic impact: Climate change is expensive — like seriously expensive. From ruined crops to rebuilding infrastructure after climate-related disasters, the economic hit is sometimes irrecoverable, affecting global economies and individual livelihoods. Bloomberg has the economic forecast on climate change costs . 6. Energy revolution: And now for a (little) bit of good news — renewable energy is on the rise, and it’s our best shot at a clean future. Solar power, wind energy, and other sustainable sources are key to reducing the use of fossil fuels. Renewable Energy World tells you how. 7. Innovative solutions: Technologies like enhanced geothermal systems, super-efficient solar cells, and heat pumps are taking the lead in providing cleaner energy alternatives and improving energy efficiency. They’re making green energy cheaper and more accessible. MIT Technology Review carries the latest in climate tech. 8. Global action required: Combating climate change requires global cooperation. International agreements and local initiatives are both crucial in addressing the many challenges posed by climate change. Learn how you can make a difference at United Nations Climate Action . This World Environment Day, let’s pledge to be more mindful of our environmental impact and take actionable steps towards sustainable living. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Reclaiming and celebrating the overlapping experiences of neurodivergence and queerness. < Back LGBTQIA+, Neurodiversity, Gender What is neuroqueerness - Pride Month Special Explainer Reclaiming and celebrating the overlapping experiences of neurodivergence and queerness. MMS Staff 1 Jun 2024 3-min read If you’re diving into what it means to be neuroqueer, you're not just unpacking an identity but a whole movement. Neuroqueerness is a relatively new and evolving concept that sits at the vibrant intersection of neurodivergence and LGBTQIA+ identities. This theory extends the principles of queer theory to neurocognitive and neurobehavioral deviations, challenging conventional norms around both gender/ sexuality and neurological functioning. Through this lens, neuroqueerness advocates for a radical rethinking of societal norms and behaviors, encouraging individuals to explore and embrace their unique differences as integral components of their identity. What’s neuroqueerness anyway? Neuroqueerness is this radical idea that comes from not fitting into the typical boxes society has laid out. It’s where our neurodivergent selves — be it autism, ADHD, or any other neurodivergence — meet our queer identities. This intersection makes us question and often redefine gender, sexuality, and how we navigate social interactions. The intersection of neurodivergence & queerness Studies show a higher prevalence of non-heterosexual orientations and non-traditional gender identities among neurodivergent individuals compared to the neurotypical population. For example, research indicates that up to 70% of autistic individuals identify as non-heterosexual . A significant number of people within the neurodivergent community also identify with non-binary or genderqueer identities, suggesting a fluidity in gender that parallels their unique neurological make-up. Both neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ individuals often face societal exclusion and misunderstanding. Personal narratives: voices of the neuroqueer community Many neuroqueer individuals describe a journey of self-discovery that involves connecting the dots between their neurodivergence and their queer identities. For some, understanding their neurodivergence provides clarity on why they may feel different not only in terms of cognitive functioning but also in their gender and sexual identity. The social misunderstandings common to both identities can complicate personal and professional relationships. However, embracing both identities can lead to a powerful self-awareness and authenticity. Personal stories often highlight moments of acceptance and empowerment when neuroqueer individuals find communities that embrace all aspects of their identity. The importance of inclusive spaces Creating spaces that are both neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQIA+ affirming is crucial. These spaces not only provide safety and acceptance but also empower neuroqueer individuals to express their identities fully. Educational programs, workplace policies, and community initiatives that address both neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ issues can help in fostering an inclusive society. Increasing awareness about neuroqueerness through education can help dismantle stereotypes and reduce stigma. Community participation programs such as workshops, seminars, etc, and media representation that include neuroqueer voices can enlighten the broader public and foster empathy and understanding. Advocacy is needed to push for policies that specifically address the needs of the neuroqueer community, such as healthcare tailored to their unique challenges, anti-discrimination protections, and support in educational and employment settings. Real talk: the challenges and joys Navigating the world as a neuroqueer person can be tough. We often deal with misconceptions about both our neurodivergence and our queer identities. Sometimes, it feels like we're fighting on two fronts: advocating for acceptance while also battling ableism and queerphobia. However, there's immense joy and freedom in finding and embracing our true selves, and in connecting with others who get the struggle and the beauty of being neuroqueer. Conclusion Being neuroqueer is a journey of constant exploration and advocacy. It’s about challenging the norms, embracing the fluidity of our identities, and building communities that recognize the depth of our experiences. So here’s to all my neuroqueer pals out there: your experiences are valid, your challenges are seen, and your potential to reshape the world is immense. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

In 2025, singlehood isn’t a failure or a phase. It’s a clear, intentional choice for peace and autonomy < Back Community, Gender Why more women are choosing single over settling In 2025, singlehood isn’t a failure or a phase. It’s a clear, intentional choice for peace and autonomy MMS Staff 4 Jan 2026 6-min read In late December, 2025, British Vogue published a piece that caught fire online: a collage of women describing why they’d stepped away from dating, relationships, and the emotional tug-of-war of “maybe he’ll change.” One line landed especially hard: a woman describing her ex as a “peace thief.” Another said, flatly, “There’s no way a man could make my life better.” It was easy to read those quotes as just another viral breakup moment. But what made the essay travel wasn’t the drama. It was recognition. Because for a lot of women, 2025 didn’t feel like the year they “gave up on love.” It felt like the year they stopped negotiating with exhaustion. Like they stopped auditioning for basic consideration. Like they finally treated their peace as something worth protecting. And behind that shift lies a bigger truth: when relationships are built on unequal labour - emotional, domestic, caregiving, financial - opting out stops being a personal preference and starts looking like a rational response. What “choosing yourself” actually means (and what it doesn’t) The internet loves a clean storyline: women are choosing themselves, end of discussion. But real life is messier. “Choosing yourself” can mean leaving a relationship that slowly shrinks your nervous system. It can mean refusing to be someone’s therapist, mother, scheduler, reminder app, and career coach while your own needs stay “too much.” It can mean deciding you’d rather live with a quiet home and a full group chat than a partner who adds more work than warmth. But it also needs nuance: not everyone is single by choice. Loneliness is real. So is desire. So is the grief of wanting partnership and not finding it safely or sustainably. What’s changing isn’t that women have stopped wanting love. It’s that more women are publicly saying: love can’t require self-erasure. The data behind the mood: marriage is no longer the default “fulfilling life”. In a Pew Research Center survey (April, 2023) about what Americans think contributes to a fulfilling life, people ranked job satisfaction and close friendships far above marriage or having children. Only about 23% of US adults said being married is “extremely” or “very” important for a fulfilling life. 44% said it’s “not too” or “not at all” important. Women, in that survey, were less likely than men to rank marriage as highly important. That’s not the death of marriage. It’s the end of marriage as a universal life requirement - at least in how many people imagine meaning, stability, and “a good life”. And it aligns with a second trend: the growing visibility of life paths that don’t revolve around coupledom. People are building futures around community, work, creativity, chosen family, non-traditional partnerships, co-living, or simply space to breathe. Why more women are walking away: the unpaid labour math For decades, women have been told relationships are where they’ll find support. But many have experienced the opposite: relationships as a second job . Globally, women and girls shoulder 76% of unpaid care responsibilities, amounting to billions of hours of unpaid work each day, according to UN human rights experts . That statistic isn’t just about chores. It’s about how society is structured: who is expected to remember birthdays, manage elders’ health appointments, keep track of school forms, notice the empty fridge, absorb emotional fallout, and smooth over conflict. This is why “peace” shows up so often in women’s language now. Because what many women are naming isn’t a lack of romance. It ’s time poverty, role overload, and the slow drain of being the one who holds everything together. Research also links unequal domestic labour to women’s well-being. A large review of research on “invisible household labor” notes that unequal division of labor at home is associated with women’s psychological distress, depression, and role overload, especially in parenting contexts where demands intensify. So yes, some women are choosing singlehood. But often they’re choosing something even more basic: a life that doesn’t run on their unpaid labour. “It’s not a dating trend. It’s a reckoning.” That’s what the British Vogue essay captured so sharply, the feeling that women are done treating disappointment as normal. Done being told that a man being “not that bad” is something to be grateful for. Done being socialized to stay, soften, tolerate, and translate. In the piece, the author describes ending things after a man showed up two hours late to a date. Not because it was the worst betrayal imaginable, but because she realized she didn’t have to swallow her needs to keep someone around. That’s the emotional heart of this cultural moment: women noticing the small disrespect that used to be normalized, and deciding it’s not the price of love anymore. The safety context we can’t ignore: “intimate life” can carry real risk. There’s another layer here that doesn’t trend as easily: relationships aren’t just emotionally costly. In many parts of the world, they can be physically dangerous. A UNODC and UN Women femicide brief (released November 2025) reported that in 2024, 83,000 women and girls were intentionally killed, and 60% (50,000) were killed by intimate partners or family members. That’s one woman or girl killed by a partner or family member almost every 10 minutes. This doesn’t mean relationships are inherently unsafe. But it does mean that “just get married” or “just compromise” is not neutral advice. When women say they’re protecting their peace, sometimes they mean they’re protecting their lives. For disabled and neurodivergent women, the stakes can be even higher. Disabled and neurodivergent women often face a uniquely tangled set of pressures: Being told partnership is “security” while also being more vulnerable to control, dependency, or infantilization. Being expected to overcompensate in relationships to be seen as “worth loving”. Having access needs dismissed as “too much”, “too sensitive”, or “dramatic”. Carrying caregiving responsibilities while also needing care, and being shamed either way. When mainstream culture frames single women as “sad” or “left behind”, it misses how many women are actively building safer, softer, more regulated lives with friendships, community, chosen family, and self-trust as the infrastructure. The internet didn’t start this, but it made it visible. One of the most interesting parts of this shift is how loudly it’s happening in public now. Online, women are sharing “divorce diaries”, “anti-marriage memes”, and glow-up singlehood stories, not because they’re performing bitterness, but because they’re unlearning shame. They’re exchanging scripts: how to leave, how to live alone, how to make a village, how to stop romanticizing struggle. In Pew’s 2023 survey , Americans ranked close friendships as a major pillar of a fulfilling life... far above marriage. That doesn’t feel abstract when you look at how women are actually living: calling friends after bad dates, moving in with roommates by choice, planning group trips, building mutual aid networks, choosing community over coupledom. When women stop begging for the bare minimum, it doesn’t mean romance is dead. It means the bar is finally where it should’ve been. At Much Much Spectrum, we hold space for all of it. The relief of leaving, the grief of wanting, the anger at unequal labour, the tenderness of friendship, the complicated reality that “choice” isn’t equally available to everyone. But we also believe something simple and radical: A relationship should add life to your life, not take it from you. If this story made you feel seen, tell us what “peace” looks like for you right now. In love, in friendship, in family, in solitude. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

New guidelines aim to end stereotypes and promote accurate portrayals of disabilities in media < Back Disability, Media, News SC issues landmark guidelines for disability representation in films New guidelines aim to end stereotypes and promote accurate portrayals of disabilities in media MMS Staff 8 Jul 2024 4-min read One of the foundational pillars of an affirming attitude towards disability and neurodivergence is good media representation. Until the depiction of disabled and neurodivergent people in our films, TV series and social media is accurate, respectful, and empathetic, not much in society's attitude towards this community can change. Looks like the Supreme Court has taken note. In a landmark ruling on July 8, a Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud established comprehensive guidelines to prevent stereotyping and discrimination of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in visual media, including films and documentaries. The petition, filed by disability rights activist Nipun Malhotra, was driven by concerns over derogatory and discriminatory remarks towards PwDs in the film ‘Aankh Micholi.' The film included terms like “ atki hui cassettes ” (stuck cassettes) and “ bhulakkad baap ” (forgetful father) to describe individuals with speech and memory disabilities. ‘Aankh Micholi,’ released in 2023 to largely unfavourable reviews , is a film about a family whose various members live with disabilities and health conditions, including deafness, stammering and night blindness. The plot is an ableist ‘comedy of errors’ that rests on using disability and neurodivergence as elements of comic relief. Unfortunately, what a lot of filmmakers fail to realise is not only is the disabled community a low hanging fruit for comedy and all other kinds of slapstick content that shows them in bad light for a cheap laugh, their improper representation gives rise to society's developing misgivings about the community’s actual potential. The Supreme Court rightly emphasised that creators must provide an accurate representation of disabilities rather than mocking or mythifying them. Justice JB Pardiwala, part of the bench, described the judgment as "path-breaking," denouncing the use of stigmatising terms like “cripple” and “spastic.” Historical context and the need for change Indian films, TV serials, ads, and news media have long used disabilities and neurodivergent conditions as a source of comic relief, often at the expense of the dignity of persons with disabilities and neurodivergent conditions. Characters with disabilities have been frequently depicted in a manner that elicits pity or frames them as overtly inspirational, contributing to a skewed and harmful portrayal of disability. This stereotypical representation reinforces negative perceptions and stigmatisation, marginalising an already vulnerable group. The Supreme Court's latest judgement Chief Justice Chandrachud, authoring the judgement, drew attention to the harmful myths perpetuated by visual media about disabilities. The Court noted that depicting persons with disabilities as “super-cripples” implies that they must possess extraordinary abilities, thereby marginalising those who do not fit this stereotype. The bench stated, “Stereotyping is an antithesis to dignity and non-discrimination,” highlighting the judiciary’s evolving role in safeguarding individual rights and addressing complex intersections of disability, gender, and mental health. Modern social model vs the medical model The judgement emphasised a shift from the medical model, which views disability as a personal tragedy, to the modern social model. The social model treats disabilities as a result of societal barriers rather than individual deficits. Chief Justice Chandrachud highlighted that stereotypes and a mockery of disabilities arise from a lack of familiarity and inadequate representation of persons with disabilities in mainstream discourse. Distinguishing humour types and their impact The Court made a critical distinction between “disabling humour” and “disability humour.” Disabling humour demeans persons with disabilities, while disability humour seeks to better understand and explain disability. The context, intention, and overall message of media content should be considered before concluding whether remarks are disparaging. Guidelines for inclusive representation The Supreme Court issued several guidelines for creators of films and visual media content: Language and terminology: Insensitive language is contrary to the dignity of persons with disabilities. Terms like “cripple” and “spastic” should be avoided, as should terms like “afflicted,” “suffering,” and “victim.” These terms contribute to negative self-image and societal marginalisation. Accurate representation: Creators must strive for accurate representation of medical conditions to prevent misinformation and perpetuation of stereotypes. Misleading portrayals can reinforce harmful misconceptions about disabilities. Diverse realities: Visual media should depict the diverse realities of persons with disabilities, showcasing not only their challenges but also their successes, talents, and contributions to society. This holistic portrayal helps to normalise disability and reduce stigma. Stakeholder involvement: The bench emphasised the importance of disabled participation in the creation of media, stating, “‘Nothing about us without us’ principle is based on the promotion of participation of persons with disabilities and equalisation of opportunities. This principle must be practised in constituting statutory committees and inviting expert opinions for assessing the overall message of films and their impact on the dignity of individuals under the Cinematograph Act and Rules.” The Court went on to remind the government of its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to incorporate the lived experiences of disabled individuals. In March, the Supreme Court had requested the Central government's response to a plea filed by disability rights activist Nipun Malhotra in the same matter. Malhotra's complaint was that the film and its trailer contained derogatory references to persons with disabilities (PwDs). The issue escalated to the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court dismissed Malhotra's plea, stating that excessive censorship should be avoided. The Supreme Court's ruling marks a significant step towards dismantling harmful stereotypes and promoting inclusive representation of disabilities in visual media. It now remains to be seen just how many producers, directors, screenwriters and social media creators adhere to these guidelines. If you’re any of the above and unsure where or how to begin, consider engaging with disability advocacy groups that can provide insights about disabled lived experiences. A lot of nonprofits and independent self-advocates conduct training and sensitisation programs, which could potentially give insights into the community’s realities. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Former Chief Justice opens up about how most Indian homes remain unfit for disabled people < Back Disability, News, Parenting India isn’t built for the Disabled — DY Chandrachud Former Chief Justice opens up about how most Indian homes remain unfit for disabled people MMS Staff 19 Apr 2025 3-min read When the 50th Chief Justice of India Dr DY Chandrachud recently spoke about his struggle to find an accessible home for his daughters with disabilities, it wasn’t just a personal anecdote, it was a national wake-up call. Speaking at a recent event on disability rights, Chandrachud said, “We have two beautiful daughters who are children with special needs. But every house we go to is just not equipped for a family with disabled members.” Chandrachud, who must vacate his official residence by April 30, shared that his family has been actively searching for a home to rent. But the options, even in India’s capital, are startlingly inaccessible. “We saw a lovely house today,” he said. “But the rooms were at different levels, separated by a step. And the landlord said, ‘I’ll put a wooden ramp,’ not realising that accessibility isn’t just about connecting Level 0 to Level 1. It’s much more.” When the system fails the system The irony is hard to miss. Here is one of the most powerful men in India’s judiciary, someone who has presided over landmark rulings on disability rights, now confronting the very barriers he has spent years trying to dismantle. If Chandrachud and his family are facing these obstacles, what about the millions of Indians with disabilities who lack the same influence, resources, or legal knowledge? A country still not built for disabled people India passed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD) in 2016. The law mandates accessibility in buildings, transport, communication, and digital services. But implementation has lagged. Budget allocations remain inadequate, and public and private infrastructures alike continue to ignore basic design standards. Where they exist, accessible infrastructure is patchy. Ramps, if present, are often too steep. Elevators are missing or non-functional. Tactile paving is placed in arbitrary directions. Toilets are not usable for wheelchair users. And in most Indian homes, steps at the entrance or inside rooms make independent living nearly impossible. The issue is not a lack of laws but a lack of will, societal understanding, and inclusive design. From the courtroom to the community To be clear, Chandrachud is no stranger to the disability rights movement. As Chief Justice, he delivered the 2017 judgment in the Rajiv Rathod case, directing states to draft comprehensive accessibility plans. He also established the Supreme Court Accessibility Committee in 2022, and released the Supreme Court’s Disability Handbook in 2023, guiding judges on disability-inclusive jurisprudence. At the event, he emphasised that law alone is not enough. “Courts can only go so far,” he said. “There must be incentives — like tax benefits — for accessible design. And there should be monetary sanctions, not criminal ones, for non-compliance.” He also addressed the need for empathy-led judiciary reforms, supporting the idea of benches that understand disability rights, even if not exclusively dedicated to them. Who designs for whom? India’s cities — its homes, schools, airports, parks, courts, and buses — are largely designed for the non-disabled. For the 26.8 million disabled people in India (as per Census 2011, though estimates are likely much higher), the world outside is often a series of closed doors. And while accessibility is often painted as a “special need,” it is, in fact, a universal need. An elderly person recovering from surgery, a parent pushing a stroller, a delivery worker carrying heavy loads... everyone benefits from barrier-free design. A moment of reckoning That it took a former Chief Justice’s personal housing struggle to reignite this conversation says something about the invisibilisation of disabled voices in public discourse. The path forward Chandrachud concluded with a note of quiet urgency: “Disability law cuts across the whole of society. It’s not like insolvency law, which requires niche expertise. What it requires is understanding and design that respects dignity.” Until then, the former Chief Justice — and millions of disabled Indians — will keep encountering steps where there should have been bridges. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Highlighting nature doesn’t discriminate, the Channel 4 ad appends “They’re so good, considering…” with “Considering What?” < Back Disability, Media, News Paralympics 2024 campaign challenges perceptions about Paralympians Highlighting nature doesn’t discriminate, the Channel 4 ad appends “They’re so good, considering…” with “Considering What?” MMS Staff 7 Aug 2024 2-min read British broadcaster Channel 4 has launched its new campaign film ‘Considering What?’ ahead of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Created by Channel 4’s in-house agency 4creative, the campaign seeks to challenge the public's perceptions of Paralympians, encouraging viewers to see them as elite athletes rather than competitors “overcoming” their disabilities. The campaign launched on July 12, and comes after research commissioned by Channel 4 revealed that nearly 60 percent of viewers watch the Paralympics to ‘see athletes overcoming their disabilities,’ whereas only 37 percent watch it for ‘exciting sporting competition.’ The campaign aims to shift this narrative, focusing on the athletes' sporting excellence. The video personifies the elements of the world — gravity, friction, and time — showing that these elements make no exceptions for any athlete, regardless of disability. Gravity is depicted as a taunting, shirtless man, friction appears as an abrasive racer in a yellow sports car, and time is personified as a woman with a stopwatch. The elements, respectively, are shown challenging wheelchair rugby star Aaron Phipps, multi-gold medallist Sarah Storey and sprinter Emmanuel Oyinbo-Coker. The spin here is that the film shows athletes overcoming these elements, not their own disabilities. Simultaneously, the film is capturing the reactions of audiences watching the Paralympics, some of whom - although well-intentioned - say things like: “He’s incredible… for someone like that.” and “They’re so brave, considering…” “Considering what?” the ad asks. Lynsey Atkin, Executive Creative Director of 4creative, explains : “Excellence is excellent, no caveats. How strange that as audiences we watch one of the world’s most elite sporting events with our heads tilted and our amazement seemingly tempered. Gravity, friction, time — the unchangeable forces of our world dictate what it means to be the best on the pitch, in the pool, on the court, on the track. They offer no head starts, no free passes, no patronising pat on the head and another go around.” Supporting the TV campaign is an out-of-home campaign, featuring posters of Paralympians and a mural by disabled artist Florence Burns. These collaterals convey the ‘Considering What?’ message by adding a strikethrough across well-meaning but patronising phrases that are commonly associated with Paralympic athletes. Channel 4’s Chief Marketing Officer Katie Jackson highlights the significance of the campaign: “... The Paralympics is one of the greatest sporting events in the world, drawing many millions of viewers. And that’s just it. This is sport, where athletic prowess takes centre stage and excellence wins above all else. As we show Paralympians battling against the very real forces of our world, we wanted to highlight the pure power and energy of world-class athleticism. Because at the end of the day, sport doesn’t care about disability. Paris, we’re coming for you.” Watch the full film here and let us know your thoughts below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUs_mNTNwvE Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Thai PM joins Bangkok's Pride parade, highlighting the nation's historic push towards legalizing same-sex marriage < Back LGBTQIA+, Gender, News Thailand celebrates Pride Month amidst same-sex marriage advancements Thai PM joins Bangkok's Pride parade, highlighting the nation's historic push towards legalizing same-sex marriage MMS Staff 2 Jun 2024 4-min read The streets of Bangkok were awash with rainbow flags on Saturday, marking the beginning of Pride Month with a spectacular parade that saw thousands of LGBTQIA+ people coming together in a vibrant display of unity and love. As signs and placards bearing the slogan "Love wins'' adorned the city, the event signified more than just a celebration; it marked a pivotal moment in Thailand's journey towards legalising same-sex marriages. "This year's pride parade can be considered one of the biggest because it coincides with the passing of the same-sex marriage," said Avorawan Ramwan, who joined the parade with her partner. The significance of this year's parade is heightened by the anticipation of a landmark legislative change. Thailand is on the brink of legalizing same-sex marriage, with an equality bill set for its final readings in the Senate later this month. An overhead view of the Bangkok Pride parade, showcasing a massive rainbow flag stretching across the street, carried by a large crowd of participants. People line the sidewalks and an overpass, cheering and taking photos, as the vibrant colors of the flag create a striking visual display. The parade highlights the strong support for LGBTQIA+ rights and the push for same-sex marriage equality in Thailand. In a show of solidarity and support, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin participated in the parade, donning a rainbow shirt. He took to social media to express his support, stating, "It is a basic right to choose who to love." The Prime Minister’s participation and public endorsement reflect a growing acceptance and recognition of LGBTQIA+ rights in Thailand. The bill, which passed the upper house's first reading in April, is scheduled for its second and third readings this month. "The Senate will likely pass the bill on June 18," said Senator Wallop Tangkananuruk, chairman of the Senate's committee on same-sex marriage. Should the bill pass without amendments from the lower house, it will be sent for royal approval, after which it will become law 120 days post-publication in the Royal Gazette. Thailand's embrace of LGBTQIA+ rights is not only reflected in its legislative progress but also in its cultural and social landscape. Known globally as a haven for the LGBTQIA+ community, Thailand has long been celebrated for its inclusivity and acceptance. The country hosts numerous pride events and has a thriving LGBTQIA+ scene that attracts visitors from around the world. "Pride events are meaningful, and Thailand is known worldwide as a paradise for the LGBT community. Therefore, we must help promote and advocate for it, as well as implement laws to support the LGBT community," said transgender woman Aunchanaporn Pilsauta. Her words emphasise the importance of both societal acceptance and legal recognition in creating a truly inclusive environment. As Thailand moves closer to recognizing same-sex marriages, the enthusiasm and hope among the LGBTQIA+ community are palpable. The potential passing of the same-sex marriage bill not only signifies a major victory for LGBTQIA+ rights in Thailand but also sets a progressive example for other nations in the region and beyond. A participant in the Bangkok Pride parade proudly holds a sign reading 'Mr. Gay World,' while carrying a rainbow flag. He is followed by other participants dressed in colorful outfits, including a person in a Dalmatian costume. The parade path is painted in rainbow colors, and the sides are lined with spectators cheering and taking photos. In the background, a stage and balloons in rainbow colors add to the festive atmosphere, celebrating LGBTQIA+ pride and advocacy in Thailand. Context on Thailand's LGBTQIA+ affirmation Thailand has long been regarded as one of the most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries in Southeast Asia. The country’s rich cultural history, combined with its contemporary embrace of diversity, has positioned it as a leader in LGBTQIA+ rights and acceptance. Cities like Bangkok and Pattaya are well-known for their vibrant LGBTQIA+ communities and events, drawing tourists and locals alike to celebrate and support equality. Despite the progress, the journey towards full legal recognition has been a challenging one. Activists and allies have tirelessly campaigned for years, pushing for equal rights and protections under the law. The upcoming potential legalization of same-sex marriage is a testament to their perseverance and the gradual shift in societal attitudes towards greater inclusivity. A step towards equality The momentum for change is building, and the prospect of legalized same-sex marriage in Thailand is a beacon of hope for many. The celebration during this year's Pride Month, with its unprecedented turnout and official endorsements, highlights the critical intersection of cultural celebration and legal progress. As Thailand inches closer to this historic milestone, the spirit of Pride and the message that "Love wins" continue to resonate powerfully across the nation and beyond. This article incorporates information from a Reuters report on the recent Pride events and legislative developments in Thailand. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS