Minister calls for removing stigma against people living with AIDS

Bangalore, July 24 (UNI) Karnataka Health Minister Sriramulu today gave a clarion call to end the stigma, denial and discrimination against people living with HIV and AIDS.

Mr Sriramulu, who visited the Red Ribbon Express, which was stationed here he said that many people with HIV positive are committing suicide. Doctors and medical staff cannot prevent this but public involvement can stop by putting an end to the stigma and discrimination they face.'' Every taluk has facilities to prevent the spread of HIV from mother to child. People should come forward and utilize these centres which provide counseling and treatment,'' he added.

Minister for Medical Education Ramachandre Gowda speaking on the occasion said that Youth should take care of their health which is more important than wealth." Earlier Mr Gowda launched the HIV-AIDS awareness campaign at the Cantonment Railway Station where Red Ribbon Express was stationed for public to view.

Mr Roshan Baig, MLA, flagged off the Kala Jatha teams. Sapna Ravindran of Population Services International released the balloons to symbolically start the bus caravan.

The train saw 2949 visitors on day one which included college students, people living with HIV, youth groups and general public.

A total of 14,949 people visited the train during the 3 day halt at Bangarpet in Kolar district.

UNI MSP MV TS1957