Dr I Moatemjen, CMO Dimapur. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | December 1
To mark the occasion of World AIDS day observed annually on December 1, the District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit (DAPCU), Dimapur in collaboration with the District Level Network, NGOs and development organised an event at District Hospital Dimapur based on this year’s theme, ‘Equalise.’
Guest speaker, Dr I Moatemjen, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dimapur stressed on the improved need toward providing education for children living with HIV so that they are aware of their rights, services being provided and access to healthcare. Observing the changing trends around conversations on HIV the CMO reminded that a lot more still needed to be done on creating awareness as stigma is still prevalent. He mentioned that decriminalisation of sex work, drug use and recognition of same-sex relationships as positive steps to end inequalities faced by these groups.
Delving on the theme ‘Equalize,’ he observed an aspect of inequality prevalent in the society in terms of gender inequality, funding by government, treatment being only one sided towards adult, lack of facilities, medication etc. The CMO stated that the aim of all governments around the world is for the complete eradication of HIV and AIDS by 2030. As such he urged upon the government and those responsible to provide equal access to rights, services and medical facilities.
Advocate Tonika Shohe, Panel Lawyer of Dimapur District Legal Services Authority, briefly talked on the HIV & AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act introduced in 2017 and the rights included in it. The act allowed for the need to take consent prior to giving testing or medication to patients and protection of their identity. “The law also prohibits all individuals from publishing information or advocating hatred against HIV positive individuals,” she said. Anyone found in violation could lead to imprisonment up to 2 years and fine amount of Rs 1 lakh.
Sharing from affected family was given by Razouvolhou Belho who spoke about his relative who was diagnosed with the disease.
Mary Jimo, President, D+WA voice of persons living with HIV, spoke on the stigma attached to those people with HIV particularly the shame that comes with it. The lack of acceptance within society is still very much prevalent she said. Furthermore she remarked that support for the HIV community should not only be monetary in nature but showing empathy and love as well. “It can go a long way in breaking the stigma and showing that you care for them,” she commented.
