In the Advisory, NHRC has called for the removal of discriminatory legal provisions in over 90 laws in a time bound manner. It has also recommended that the state government should establish a helpline to ensure prompt reporting and medical attention, and provide and expand mobile based tele-consultation services for persons affected by leprosy.
In the advisory, NHRC has recommended that union and state governments should create awareness that leprosy is fully curable. It said that awareness should be created that a person suffering from leprosy no longer remains contagious after receipt of first dose of MDT and may lead a normal married life, can have children, can take part in social events and go to work, school and college as normal. NHRC has said that awareness program should also highlight that persons affected by leprosy are not required to be sent to any special clinic or hospital or sanatorium and should not be isolated from the family and community. The Commission has recommended that the same should be included in school curriculum to enhance sensitization of youth.
The Commission has also called for launch of special programs to provide vocational training, employment benefit, unemployment benefits, parental leave, health insurance and funeral benefits to the persons affected by leprosy and their family members. NHRC has recommended that state governments should provide due attention to ensure that persons affected by leprosy are provided with BPL card, Aadhar card, Job card and other identity proofs on priority.
The Commission has asked all concerned authorities to implement the recommendations in the advisory and submit an action taken report within three months.
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