Shillong: Former Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh has called for a balanced and multi-pronged approach to address the rising cases of HIV/AIDS in Meghalaya, stressing the need for sensitive policymaking while safeguarding the rights of vulnerable groups, including commercial sex workers.
Responding to concerns over recent police raids on alleged commercial sex work activities, Lyngdoh described HIV/AIDS as a “very complicated” and “sensitive” issue that must be handled within clear legal and policy frameworks. While terming the recent raid necessary to send a strong message, she said the broader challenge lies in ensuring that government action remains both effective and humane.
“HIV/AIDS has a corresponding legal boundary, which, if not dealt with adequately and sensitively through policies and guidelines, can get out of hand,” she said, adding that commercial sex work remains a “grey area” requiring careful handling.
Lyngdoh emphasised that governments across the world, when faced with a surge in HIV/AIDS cases, are often compelled to adopt strong and immediate measures to prevent further spread. She noted that Meghalaya has reached a stage where authorities must review existing policies, including protective measures and the responsibilities of health sector institutions.
At the same time, she underlined that any intervention must strike a balance between public health priorities and the rights of commercial sex workers and people living with HIV/AIDS. “We have to combine them carefully around the sensitivity of rights,” she said, cautioning that while decisive action is necessary, it may also involve sensitive challenges.
Indicating that the government is actively deliberating on the issue, Lyngdoh said discussions are underway to adopt a “mission mode” approach to tackle the situation comprehensively. She stressed that addressing HIV/AIDS goes beyond medical intervention and requires an understanding of the psychological, physical and emotional realities of those affected.
Describing the recent raid as an “indicator of government alertness,” she said such actions also reflect the legal position in the state, where no specific zones have been designated for commercial sex work. However, she cautioned that inaction could be equally risky, especially as the issue has already been raised in the Assembly and advisories have been issued by legislators.
Lyngdoh also pointed to examples from other states, such as West Bengal, where structured mechanisms have been adopted to address similar challenges, suggesting that Meghalaya could draw lessons while tailoring solutions to its own context.
Calling for collective responsibility, she said the fight against HIV/AIDS cannot be handled through a one-dimensional strategy. Instead, she advocated collaboration between the government, civil society, NGOs and religious organisations.
“This cannot be addressed through a one-way approach. It has to be multi-pronged,” she said, expressing optimism that the government is taking cognisance of the urgency and is prepared to act responsibly.