• The Supreme Court today asked the Centre, states and union territories to undertake a campaign to make people aware about the curability of leprosy so that those suffering from it do not face discrimination.

• A bench headed by Chief Justice recommended to the Centre and the states to repeal archaic provisions from 119 statutes which discriminated against and stigmatise those affected by the disease.

• It also directed that no government hospital shall decline treatment to such patients.

• "Persons suffering from leprosy also have the right to live with human dignity", the bench observed.

• Directions by SC :

• The Union of India in the Department of Health and other departments concerned carry out awareness campaigns so as to sensitize the public about its curability and non-contagiousness

•  A separate wing be created to expand the sphere of awareness and authorities concerned may be nominated for the said duties.

• Specific programmes be aired on All India Radio and Doordarshan at the Central and state level and the regional channels so as to educate the public that leprosy is non-communicable.

• The programme be displayed at an appropriate time so that the majority of people may watch.

• Hospitals shall not refuse treatment and to administer the first injection under the Multi-Drug Therapy.

• It has to be remembered that a person has a right to health and to obtain treatment at government hospitals.

• There must be a holistic approach to awareness and the campaigns shall extend from the urban areas to the Panchayat level.

• The state government shall take steps for the rehabilitation of persons who are suffering or have suffered from leprosy, it shall be the primary duty of the state to see that these people do not suffer from any kind of stigma.

The Hindu, Outlook India.