Disabled persons in the state have urged the BJD government to fulfill its promises in the election manifesto of forming a state level commission to look into their demands, after winning its third consecutive term in Orissa.

The main demands of the physically challenged in the state include hike in disability pension from Rs 200 per month to Rs 1000 per month and appointment of a state commissioner to look after their welfare.

"BJD had promised in its election manifesto to appoint the commissioner and we urge it to expedite the work," said secretary of the Ganjam District Orthopaedical Welfare Association (GDOWA) K Ananda Rao.

Persons with Disability Act, 1995 has provided for setting up of a disability commission at the Centre and also a state-level commission. While at least 14 states have already appointed the commission, Orissa is yet to follow suit.

"We had discussed our demands with the government. Some of the physically handicapped persons had even gheraoed the state assembly to press for their demands," he said.

"Fortunately now the new government is formed under the same Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and we hope he will understand our sentiments and fulfill the demands on a priority basis," Rao said.