New Delhi,April 12: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) (Prevention and Control) Bill, 2017, passed yesterday, while guaranteeing people living with HIV and AIDS with equal rights in medical treatment, admission to educational institutions and jobs.
Health Minister J.P. Nadda said the government “stands committed to free treatment of HIV patients”. also said, “Whosoever does not adhere to the provisions of the Bill will be penalized. There would also be civil and criminal proceedings against them. Action would be also taken against those who come between the implementation of the provisions of the proposed Bill.”
The Bill also prohibits any individual from publishing information or advocating feelings of hatred against HIV positive persons and those living with them. It also bans unfair treatment of people living with and affected by HIV with regard to accessing public facilities, such as shops, restaurants, hotels, public entertainment venues, public facilities and burial grounds.