HIV affected person has right to live with dignity: Abid Rasheed

Jammu, Dec 01: Secretary Health and Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah today remarked that every person affected by HIV has right to live with dignity and as society we must work together to create an environment of understanding, compassion and support for them.
The Secretary made these remarks during an event organized by Jammu and Kashmir AIDS Control Society (JKACS) at Convention Centre here to mark the World AIDS Day celebrations.
Project Director, JKACS, Principal GMC Jammu, Director Health Services Jammu, Director Coordination New GMCs, Director Colleges J&K, Principals of different colleges and Nursing institutions of Jammu, members of NGOs, AIDS fighters and large number of students from different institutions of Jammu were also present on the occasion.
Addressing the massive gathering, Dr. Abid Rasheed said that every year on this day we organise functions to mark World AIDS Day and these gatherings should incorporate some sense of consciousness in our society, especially in young population.
“These gatherings have deeper meaning and our young generation need to inculcate in themselves the spirit of being the Agents of Change in the Society”, Dr. Abid Rasheed said.
The Secretary highlighted that there is need to raise awareness regarding HIV/AIDS in our society and we all need to dismantle the stigma associated with HIV positive people. Dr. Abid Rasheed said, “HIV infected person is emotionally as well as societally affected and it is our duty to make their life somewhat better. Support to people living with HIV is very must and support to them at Community level is need of the hour”.
The Secretary underscored the critical role of education and public awareness in reducing the stigma and discrimination often faced by individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
The Secretary further underlined that access to treatment for HIV affected persons is very important and no one should be deprived of getting basic treatment.