HIV-AIDS bill by this year: Ramadoss

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HIV-AIDS bill by this year: Ramadoss

PTI, Wednesday, June 13, 2007

NEW DELHI: As the government continues deliberations with NGOs over

the HIV/AIDS bill, the legislation aimed at preventing discrimination

of those infected with the dreaded disease at workplace, education

and healthcare sectors, has been delayed.

" The HIV/AIDS bill has been delayed because we are still carrying out

discussions with more NGOs on the issue, " Union Health Minister

Anbumani Ramadoss said.

The minister had earlier announced that the bill will be introduced

in the Budget session of the Parliament.

" We plan to bring it by this year, " he said.

The bill has been drafted by the Lawyers Collective HIV/AIDS unit in

consultation with the government, people living with HIV, healthcare

providers and NGOs.

It addresses the issue of discrimination in employment, healthcare,

education and other places, besides informed consent for testing,

treatment and research.

The bill also envisages to provide a safe working environment for

healthcare workers.

It also proposes protection of inheritance and property rights and

recognises community-based alternatives to institutionalisation for

vulnerable and affected children.

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