Patna HC seeks implementation of HIV patients welfare scheme in the State

Patna HC seeks implementation of HIV patients welfare scheme in the State

Concerned over not implementing government schemes for the welfare of HIV / AIDS victims, the Patna High Court recently took action and sought a response from the Bihar State AIDS Control Society (BSACS).

In an order given on 23 March, a bench of Chief Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice S Kumar said that the next date may come into force by 5 April.

In this regard, the bench ordered the Project Director, BSACS, to file its personal affidavit indicating the steps taken by the society for a proper and complete interpretation of various statutes, rules and schemes notified for the benefit of AIDS victims. 

The Court also sought after a report on the appointment of statutory authorities for this cause and the funds allocated to them.

During the hearing, the project director assured the court that he would sit down with Amicus Curiae to prepare a chart indicating the provisions that need to be implemented in the state of Bihar. The provisions will include both state and government schemes.

A public interest litigation filed by the Council for Protection of Public Rights and Welfare in 2017 highlighted the sudden increase in the number of HIV patients in the state. The court was also informed about the inadequacy of the infrastructure to deal with the said category of patients.