Afghan Activists Demand Rights For Disabled

A suicide bomber dressed in a police uniform killed 14 people on Monday, including a prominent provincial council chief, in an attack outside the council headquarters in northern Afghanistan.

The Taliban quickly claimed responsibility.

Seeking to weaken the Afghan government, Taliban insurgents have been carrying out attacks and assassinations intended to intimidate both officials and civilians ahead of next year's withdrawal of most international troops.

Another nine people were wounded in the blast — and if any of those victims suffered injuries that will leave them disabled, they are likely to face an uncertain future.

Afghanistan isn't an easy place to make a living even if you're healthy. But for those with disabilities, it's a downright hostile environment.

Tens of thousands have been maimed and disabled during decades of conflict. Jobs are scarce, and there's almost nothing that's handicapped accessible.

NPR's Kabul correspondent Sean Carberry reports that activists are demanding change.