Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 26:
Acting on a PIL, a Division Bench of the Gauhati High Court has asked the Government to provide adequate number of CD4 testing machines in all districts of the State.
An order to this effect was passed by Justices Maibam BK Singh and BD Agarwal in their Imphal Bench sitting on June 14 following a PIL filed by Manipur Network of Positive People (MNP+) represented by its president Deepak Leimapokpam and Khumanthem Boby, both living with HIV/AIDS.
The respondents shall also take all necessary steps to ensure that the CD4 machines operate efficiently, mentioned the ruling.
The respondents listed in the PIL include the Union Government represented by Secretary, Ministry of Health, National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), the State Government represented by Commissioner Health, Manipur State AIDS Control Society (MACS) and Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS).
The respondents were also asked to take explicit steps to ensure that constitutional obligations of the State is fulfilled on priority basis by allocating sufficient fund to secure health to persons living with HIV/AIDS in the State.
Advocate Paikhomba who appeared on behalf of the petitioners said that CD4 testing facilities are available only at JN Hospital, RIMS and district hospitals of Churachandpur and Ukhrul.