HIV and AIDS Act 2017 takes effect

The implementation of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Act, 2017 starting September 10, 2018 has been announced by The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The act which was passed on April 20, 2017 by former president of India Pranab Mukherjee, prohibits discrimination against people with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLHIV) in terms of  healthcare, getting jobs, renting  accommodation or in admission to public and private educational institutions.

An authority will also be appointed by each state government to inquire into complaints related to the violation of the Act and the provision of health care services.

The discrimination against people with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) could also lead to imprisonment of up to two years or a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh.

The act says , "Notwithstanding any action that may be taken under any other law for the time being in force, whoever contravenes the provisions of section 4 shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than three months but which may extend to two years and with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees, or with both".

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