(Should an HIV test before…) Even as the state government
actively considers the move, we delve into the issue Madhu's
(name changed) life has just come crashing down. The 23-year-
old, married for the past one-and-a-half years, has tested
positive for HIV and she knows she has contracted it from her
husband. Her family is distraught but there's little they can
do. "Now, we realise the importance of getting an HIV test done
before marriage," says her father. Madhu's is not the only case.
Many such instances across the country are highlighting an
urgent need to make HIV test mandatory before marriage. The
State Women and Child Development department is actively
considering the move. In fact, Varsha Gaikwad, Minister, Women
and Child Development, recently said that her department had
sought opinions in this regard from UNICEF and NGOs working for
the welfare of HIV patients. But to bring about this rule,
amendments to provisions of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 and
other allied Acts, will be needed. And even thou