Home / Health / Karnataka HIV Charter: Zero Stigma, Full Rights!
Karnataka HIV Charter: Zero Stigma, Full Rights!
21 Jan
Summary
- A new charter for HIV+ people in Karnataka aims for zero stigma.
- It guarantees dignity, privacy, and access to services.
- Implementation gaps in the HIV Act will be addressed.
A pivotal charter for people living with HIV (PLHA) in Karnataka will be presented for endorsement at the State HIV Conclave 2026, 'Jeevotsava,' in Bengaluru. This charter, drafted by the Karnataka Network of Positive People, demands zero tolerance for stigma and discrimination across various sectors including healthcare, education, and employment.
The proposed rights charter emphasizes dignity, privacy, and confidentiality regarding HIV status. It calls for accessible, comprehensive health services and functional accountability mechanisms within government departments. Special attention is given to communities facing intersecting stigmas, such as sex workers and transgender individuals.
The conclave will also scrutinize the weak implementation of the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017, particularly its ombudsman mechanism for grievance redressal. PLHA advocate for expanded service access beyond testing and treatment, including mental health support and welfare scheme linkages.
