Candle Lights Memorial Day observed to spread AIDS/HIV awareness

New Delhi, May 20 (UNI) In rememberance of those who died battling HIV/AIDS, scores of people today gathered at the Jantar Mantar here this evening to mark the 24th Candle Lights Memorial Day and generate awareness about the disease.

Marching from Jantar Mantar holding candles, participants passed through the nearby areas spreading the message 'in silence' and paying tributes through 'service'.

Recalling the contribution of those in the fight against HIV'AIDS, 'Indian Network for Positive People' president Elango Ramachandran said the programme is dedicated to the struggle of those who created awareness among people. ''We pledge to continue the struggle with same zeal and spirit.'' ''A movement started to support those living with HIV/AIDS, International Candlelight Memorial Day is a reminder for collective introspection and a commitment to renew our efforts in fighting the challenges of the scourge,'' said Sweta Dahiya of NGO 'Action Aid'.

The movement highlights the challenge towards continued access to affordable treatment and medicines, especially new drugs, and for this the government's attention was important so that the medicines were available at treatment centres being run by it, she said.

''Creating awareness, paying condolences and sharing experiences with those affected by HIV/AIDS has been our way of spreading the message.'' The 'rally' also called for support from Parliamentarians to endorse and commit themselves to work for their cause.

Organised by a consortium of NGOs working towards the cause Candle Light Memorial day was today observed across eight cities in India besides Delhi.

UNI