India, March 26 -- Around 10,000 students studying in 198 special schools for the physically disabled across Maharashtra are facing uncertainty after a recent directive by the state's Divyang Welfare Department to gradually shift them to regular schools from the upcoming academic year starting in June. The directive, issued on February 25, is based on the inclusive education provision under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

Parents, teachers, and schools have raised concerns about the directive, fearing that many students may struggle to cope without specialised support. A large number of the students enrolled in these special schools have more than 40% physical disability and require constant care, they said.

"Some chi...