The Supreme Court of India has taken a significant step towards ensuring the rights of neurodivergent individuals by requesting comprehensive data on life insurance policies issued to persons with autism, cerebral palsy, and Asperger’s syndrome. This directive was issued during a session presided over by Justices BV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan, while they reviewed a public interest litigation (PIL) initiated by the NGO, Action for Autism.
Details of the Court Session
The court session, held on Wednesday, focused on examining the existing insurance landscape for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) was tasked with presenting data that reflects the number of life insurance policies provided to individuals with the aforementioned conditions. This demand for information came amidst discussions about the systemic reforms necessary to safeguard the rights of individuals with autism, dyslexia, and ADHD.
IRDAI’s Response
During the hearing, the counsel representing IRDAI informed the Supreme Court that two specific circulars had been issued regarding the provision of insurance to people with autism. These circulars were also submitted as part of IRDAI’s official response to the court. Despite this, the Justices sought further clarification on whether these policies had been practically extended to individuals with such conditions.
Directive for Data Collection
The Court mandated that IRDAI collect and report data detailing the number of life insurance policies issued by both public and private insurers to individuals affected by autism, cerebral palsy, and Asperger’s syndrome. This data is to be compiled and presented at the next court hearing, as per the Court’s order: “Counsel for IRDAI to seek instructions by way of preparing data insofar as the number of policies that have been issued by both public sector as well as private sector insurance companies to insure the life of persons suffering from autism, cerebral palsy and Asperger’s syndrome, and place the status/data on record by the next date of hearing.”
Implications of the Petition
The petition, which was filed in 2025 by Action for Autism, calls for extensive systemic changes to ensure that the protections afforded by disability rights laws are effectively implemented to support neurodivergent individuals. It highlights challenges faced in vital areas such as healthcare, education, employment, financial services, and insurance.
Previously, the Court had requested a response from the Union government regarding the plea, broadening the scope of the proceedings to include the insurance coverage of neurodivergent individuals. This move represents an ongoing commitment to addressing the barriers faced by this demographic in accessing essential services and protections.
