Chandel remembers lives lost to AIDS
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, May 22, 2013: Chandel Network of Positive People observed the 30th International Aids Candlelight Memorial Day 2013 under the theme, "In Solidarity" at Maha Area Chiefs' Association Hall, Panchai, Chandel on Wednesday.

The event which was held under the sponsorship of Manipur AIDS Control Society (MACS) was attended by Dr.K Gaithaorung, CMO Chandel; Dr.S Ibomcha Singh, DACO Chandel and HB Kobor, Chairperson of District Hospital Management, Chandel as Chief Guest, Functional President and Guest of Honour respectively.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Gaithaorung maintained that Candlelight symbolized remembrance of those people who have been lost to HIV/AIDS.

We observed to pay our love and affection to those departed soul as well as to raise public awareness on the rights of the people living with HIV and AIDS.

Dr Gaithaorung regretted that the Destiny Home which was meant to be constructed at the District Head Quarter of Chandel under the District Social Welfare Department Chandel had been shifted and the construction completed at Wangjing due to lack of 'public voice'.

Dr Ibomcha Singh pointed out that AIDS is not a medical problem but a social problem.

So, social mobilization is required to solve this problem.

Taking note over basic infrastructure requirement for addressing HIV/AIDS related issues, Dr Ibomcha, however, admitted that Chandel lacks the required infrastructure.

"We have no building, quarters for staffs where medical experts or professional can stay and work effectively", he said, and advised the people to urge the local MLA to take up necessary action in this regard.

HB Kobor maintained that agreement, support and feeling are required to advocate for treatment and prevention of HIV from spreading as well as for showing solidarity towards HIV/AIDS affected people.

Naga People's Movement for Human Right South sector Former Convener S Phamhring, who spoke during the function stated that understanding of Human rights is essential to all.

Interpretation of the same right according to our own understanding has, however, led to misunderstanding between ourselves and others.

Secretary CNP+, KT Shanghring, while giving keynote address of the function, regretted that the observation which was to be held on Sunday could not happen due to some unavoidable circumstances.

Giving historical background of CNP+, Shanghring said that Social activists of Chandel namely, Ps Ngamnung Anal and Rev Joykumar Anal were the first pioneer in the history of CNP+ which came into being for the first time in Chandel in 2001. While pointing out various grievances faced by the people living with HIV/AIDS, Kt Shanghring alleged District Social Welfare Officer N Chaoba Singh of being 'unreachable'.

"Whenever CNP+ calls on the officer for assistance under National Family Benefit Scheme, the latter denied providing the benefit of the said scheme to PLHIVs", she said.

But she was all praise for HB Kobor and DACO officer Dr.S Ibomcha for providing BPL cards to more than 249 HIV/AIDS affected people in Chandel.

The function was also attended by Pastors, PLHIV and other distinguished guest and invitees and media.

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