The Tamil Nadu government is considering renewing the lease of the Soulfree Inspire Centre in Tiruvannamalai. This centre is the country’s only integrated spinal rehabilitation facility offering free treatment. Its current three-year lease expired on December 3, which is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. V.P. Mohan Gandhi, dean of Tiruvannamalai Government Medical College and Hospital, said the government is reviewing the lease extension. Concerns grew after Preethi Srinivasan, a quadriplegic founder of the centre, appealed for renewal on the Chief Minister’s portal, citing delays and the high cost of relocation. The centre, spread over 1,860 sq.metres in the Old Government Hospital complex, was inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin in December 2021. It serves about 50 persons with disabilities undergoing 4-6 months of rehabilitation. Each patient is supported by a caretaker and treated by 50 specialised doctors and staff. Facilities include hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, and a terrace garden where wheelchair users can relax. The Department of Health and Family Welfare handles the lease renewal process. Collector K. Tharpagaraj confirmed the renewal should be managed by this department. The Old Government Hospital premises also host a Government Siddha Hospital, three dialysis units by the Rotary Club, a mammogram unit, and a veterinary clinic. Gnana Bharathi, founder of the Spinal Injured Persons Association, stressed the importance of such centres. "Only about three to four places offer free or affordable rehabilitation," he said. "Losing this centre would be disheartening, as many districts need such facilities due to frequent accidents." The state government’s expected decision will impact many patients who rely on this critical centre for recovery and hope.