Shillong, July 25: In a bold move to combat the alarming rise in HIV/AIDS cases, the Meghalaya government is considering a law to mandate HIV testing for couples before marriage, Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh announced on Friday. The proposed legislation, still in the early stages of deliberation, is aimed at protecting public health and ensuring early detection and treatment.
Speaking at a press briefing, Lyngdoh revealed that Meghalaya currently ranks sixth in the country for HIV/AIDS prevalence. The minister expressed concern over the growing number of infections, particularly in East and Jaintia Hills districts. “If Goa can implement mandatory testing, why shouldn’t Meghalaya consider a similar step to safeguard its people?” she questioned, advocating for community-centric laws.
The announcement followed a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong and attended by Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh, eight MLAs from East Khasi Hills, and senior officials. The meeting focused on formulating a comprehensive HIV/AIDS policy under a mission-mode approach. A cabinet note has been ordered to frame the contours of this policy, and similar consultations are planned for the Garo and Jaintia Hills.
Lyngdoh disclosed startling statistics: East Khasi Hills alone has recorded 3,432 HIV/AIDS cases, yet only 1,581 patients are currently under treatment. A total of 159 deaths have been attributed to treatment loss in the district. “HIV/AIDS is not fatal if diagnosed and treated properly. It’s no different from cancer or TB,” she emphasized.
While awareness levels are reportedly high, the minister stressed that the core issue now lies in improving testing, screening, and treatment linkages. She also noted that the primary mode of transmission remains sexual, as identifying injecting drug users remains a challenge in the state.
