MSCW for compulsory HIV testing of raped victims
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, November 09 2012:
Concerned over rising cases of rape in the state where HIV and AIDS prevalence rate is quite high, Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW) has recommended to the State Government for compulsory HIV testing of all raped victims.
In a recommendation note submitted to the Government of Manipur by MSCW, it has been stated that "A raped victim should be made to have compulsory testing of HIV/AIDS by the doctors at any hospital" .
This was disclosed by Chairperson of MSCW, Dr L Ibetombi during a press briefing at its office at Lamphelpat today after members of MSWC inspected the condition of women prisoners lodged in Central Jail, Old Lambulane.
Though the women prisoners have no complaint against the jail authorities over ill-treatment inside the jail, yet the women prisoners are apprehensive of their lives outside the jail and expressed their desire for taking up certain schemes jointly by Social Welfare Department and MSCW for ensuring a source of livelihood for them after jail term, Dr Ibetombi conveyed.
She also stressed the need for setting up Rehabilitation Centres for women prisoners who have been released.
While elaborating on other recommendations that have been forwarded to the State Government, Dr Ibetombi said unauthorised opening ofWhile elaborating on other recommendations that have been forwarded to the State Government, Dr Ibetombi said unauthorised opening of restaurants should be checked as these places contribute to increasing crime rate against women; indecent exposure of raped victims, particularly juvenile in media should be prohibited, moral education should be included till higher studies; Women Police Cells should be open at every district Head Quarters; scheme for providing financial assistance to rape victims which has already been launched by the Minister of Women and Child Development should also be implemented in Manipur and last but not the least, free medical treatment should be provided to rape victims in all State-run hospitals.