Business Line : declared in HIV Bill passed; concerns over access to treatment remain

Paul Lhungdim of the Delhi Network of Positive People said that by not amending the language of the Bill, access to treatment could be hampered as the Bill has fallen short of making access to ART a right. "If they can't continue treatment, patients could develop resistance to drugs. Bill promises antiretroviral treatment 'as far as possible'New laws to protect AIDS patients and those afflicted with HIV will soon come into force, as the Lok Sabha passed the relevant Bill on Tuesday. The Bill, which was first introduced in Parliament by Ghulam Nabi Azad during the UPA rule, was passed by the Rajya Sabha in March. The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) (Prevention and Control) Bill, 2014, provides a legislative framework to protect the rights of access to education, healthcare, public facilities, and public offices for HIV/AIDS patients.

Parliament passes HIV Bill

It would also make sure that rights of HIV children and persons over property is legally safeguarded. Though the Bill does not provide for free treatment for persons affected with HIV, Nadda during his speech said it would be provided to patients. He said the bill would ensure an 'aggressive strategy' with accountability at the Central and state levels with provisions for mandatory testing and counseling for HIV patients by the government. Parliament passed the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (Prevention and Control) Bill, 2017, seeking to prevent any injustice against HIV or AIDS infected persons on Tuesday with the Lok Sabha passing it. The minister said the Bill will also provide for screening of yet to be born children to ensure that the disease is not transmitted to children from HIV infected mothers.


The Bill also prohibits any individual from publishing information or advocating feelings of hatred against HIV positive persons and those living with them. The Bill requires that no HIV test, medical treatment, or research will be conducted on a person without his informed consent. Every person in the care and custody of the state shall have right to HIV prevention, testing, treatment and counselling services. Cases relating to HIV positive persons shall be disposed of by the court on a priority basis. No person shall be compelled to disclose his HIV status except with his informed consent, and if required by a court order.


collected by :Lucy William
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