Home / Health / Goa Erases Leprosy Stigma From Child Law
Goa Erases Leprosy Stigma From Child Law
2 Sep
Summary
- Goa's child protection law amended to remove leprosy references.
- Aim is to end social stigma and discrimination against affected individuals.
- Bill aligns state law with a Supreme Court order from May 2025.
The Goa assembly has unanimously passed the Goa Children's (Amendment) Bill, 2026. This legislative action seeks to remove all mentions of 'leprosy' from the state's child protection legislation, aiming to eradicate the social stigma and discrimination faced by those affected by the disease. The amendment was introduced on Tuesday by State Women and Child Development Minister Vishwajit Rane and subsequently passed by voice vote.
This amendment is a direct response to a Supreme Court order dated May 7, 2025. It specifically omits the word 'leprosy' from two key sections of the Goa Children's Act, 2003. These include the definitions section, where leprosy was previously grouped with HIV as a stigmatized illness, and Section 5, which concerns health and nutrition, prohibiting denial of treatment based on social stigma.
The legislative changes will be implemented immediately after receiving the governor's assent. Importantly, the amendment carries no financial implications for the state and does not involve any delegated legislation. This update ensures that state law is harmonized with national directives, fostering a more inclusive environment.
