Imphal, December 05: Retired Chief Justice and chairperson of Manipur Human Rights Commission WA Shishak has expressed deep concern over the menace of HIV/AIDS in Manipur and called for a concerted efforts to fight the disease.

Speaking as chief guest of the State Youth Convention organised by Nehru Yuva Kendra, Imphal at THAU ground, Thangmeiband today, Shishak said is worried about the future generation of Manipur who are falling easy prey to the dreaded disease.

Stressing on the importance of sharing knowledge among the people in fighting the disease as well as in removing social stigma and discrimination against the affected people, the retired Chief Justice observed that human compassion is the only thing that is required while dealing with the affected people.

Human compassion is more important that any medical treatment in dealing with the HIV/AIDS affected people, he said.

Shishak also administered pledge to NYK volunteers and their family members who were present at the occasion to work relentlessly with full commitment, dedication and sacrifice in protecting the young people, women and children from HIV/AIDS, towards making Manipuri society an AIDS and drug free society.

The convention organised as part of the World AIDS Day campaign was sponsored by National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO).

THAU advisor and retired principal of Ch Iboyaima Hr Sec School L Raghumani presided over the function attended by over 500 youths, students and NGO activists.

A panel discussion on the problem of HIV/AIDS among the youths in Manipur and their remedial measures was also held at the occasion with Director of Regional Resource and Training Centre (RRTC), Singjamei Dr A Jayantakumar.

Secretary of Integrated Women and Children.

Development Centre, Thangmeiband Yumnam Leikai Annie Mangsatabam, H Jubeta of Ereima Gender Empowerment, Nagamapal and THAU advisor Ch Birachandra were panel members during the discussion.

While summing up the discussion, Dr Jayantakumar noted that we should not depend only on the Government and the NGOs in fighting the dreaded diseases.

All the local clubs and organisations should contribute their mite in these efforts.

He also emphasised on the need for bringing out a clear cut^ policy for the youths and adequate Government funding for launching an all encompassing and comprehensive awareness programme on HIV/AIDS.

Earlier, Regional Co-ordinator, Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan, Imphal Mrs Jackie Ruivah, while highlighting oh the objective of the convention said it was to promote the role of women and girls in tackling HIV/AIDS.

Dr Manikanta Singh of JN Hospital and District AIDS Officer, Imphal Dr H Nimai were also spoke as resource persons on the topics of 'problems of HIV/AIDS among women and girls' and 'facts about HIV during the convention.

The convention concluded with cultural dance performances.

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