World Leprosy Day: A Call for Awareness and Inclusion

On the occasion of World Leprosy Day, the Office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) hosted a virtual seminar aimed at raising awareness about leprosy. The event brought together government officials, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and specialists in the field. The primary goal was to exchange experiences, brainstorm ideas, and advocate for the inclusion of individuals affected by leprosy into mainstream society. By breaking myths and eradicating stigma, the seminar sought to foster a more inclusive environment for those impacted by this disease.
Key Speakers and Their Insights
The seminar featured prominent speakers, including Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, who served as the Chief Guest. Shri S. Govindaraj, the Commissioner, was the Guest of Honour. The panel included experts such as Dr. S. Sivasubramaniam, a Senior Scientist; Dr. Shivkumar, a Leprosy Expert; Ms. Nikita Sarah, Head of Advocacy and Communication at The Leprosy Mission Trust India; and Dr. P. Narasimha Rao, President of the International Leprosy Association.
The event began with a prayer sung in Marathi by Madhav Sable, which was translated into English by Deputy CCPD Shri Praveen Prakash Ambastha. Deputy CCPD Shri Vikas Trivedi welcomed the panelists and participants, setting a positive tone for the discussions. Dr. Govindaraj delivered the inaugural address, emphasizing the importance of the seminar’s objectives.
Shri Rajesh Aggarwal shared a personal story from his early career, recalling a visit to a leprosy colony in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. He highlighted the severe social isolation faced by individuals with leprosy, stating that the stigma is often worse than caste-based discrimination. He called for legal reforms and early detection measures, stressing the need for rehabilitation after treatment.
Addressing Stigma and Legal Challenges
Shri S. Govindaraj underscored the collective responsibility to combat the stigma and discrimination associated with leprosy. He pointed out that approximately 750 leprosy colonies in India remain isolated from mainstream society. These communities face numerous legal challenges, which hinder their reintegration. Govindaraj called for comprehensive solutions to address these issues and improve the lives of those affected.
Dr. S. Sivasubramaniam provided an overview of the current state of leprosy in India, revealing that the country accounts for 53% of global cases. He emphasized the importance of community-based rehabilitation to eliminate discrimination and support affected individuals. Dr. Shivkumar discussed the current trends in leprosy, noting that it is one of the least infectious diseases. He highlighted that while many districts report low cases, 125 districts still show significant numbers, particularly in states like Chhattisgarh.
Personal Stories of Resilience
The seminar also featured personal narratives that highlighted the resilience of individuals affected by leprosy. Ms. Nikita Sarah shared her experiences in helping victims reintegrate into society. She emphasized that ignorance is the biggest barrier to combating leprosy. According to her, the disease is easy to cure if detected early, and it should not be viewed as a deformity or disability. The stigma arises primarily from a lack of awareness.
Dr. P. Narasimha Rao elaborated on the medical aspects of leprosy, describing it as biologically unique. He noted that while it is rare in many parts of the world, it remains a concern in countries like Brazil, India, and Indonesia. Ms. Shabnam Khan, a trailblazer in battling leprosy, shared her inspiring journey. Despite facing societal rejection, she became her family’s first graduate and pursued an independent life.
The seminar concluded with a strong call for greater awareness, early detection, and comprehensive rehabilitation efforts. The collective aim is to eradicate leprosy and support those affected by it, fostering a more inclusive society for all.
For those interested in viewing the seminar, a video link is available: Watch the Seminar.
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