India is home to the world’s third-largest population suffering from HIV/AIDS. With over 2 million people, there is a lot of stereotyping and social stigma attached to these patients. The following are the problems faced :

a) Social : Stereotype in the mind of the people who consider HIV positives as “against” the culture of this country. Also the misconception that it spreads by touching and eating together also prevails in many parts.
b) Economic : Very difficult for them to get job, insurance cover or any monetary assistance.
c) Political : Don’t have the confidence to fight elections as people wouldn’t even consider the patient as a competent candidate.

The Bill seeks to remove this stigma attached to the patients “legally”, also making it obligatory to provide health insurance to such patients, which if denied, would be punishable by law.

Amendments proposed :
a) Prohibits all kinds of discrimination against an HIV infected person.
b) Makes the consent of the person compulsory for any kind of HIV tests, medical treatment and research.
c)Safeguards employment, educational services, public facilities, property rights, holding public office, and insurance for people living with HIV.

The amendments are major steps in eradicating inequality with the infected persons. Now no insurance company can deny insurance citing HIV as a reason. Also, recruiters cannot cite the infection of the person as a reason for denying him the job. Although all these moves cannot guarantee complete eradication, but the legislative framework making it a legally punishable offence would at least instill a fear in the minds of such persons.
Again, discrimination against a person is against Article 14 of the Indian constitution, and eradication of HIV infected persons one of the SDG’s. Eradication can happen only when the stereotyping is removed. This bill is a step in this direction.