People living with HIV (PLHIV) in India now have equal rights after the government passed a historic bill ensuring their protection.

The HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Bill was passed in the federal parliament on Tuesday. The bill makes it illegal to discriminate against PLHIV.

India is the first country in south Asia to introduce anti-discrimination legislation. It will protect PLHIV’s access to health, housing education and prevent restaurants or shops refusing them entry.

India has the third highest number of PLHIV at 2.1 million, with more than 68,000 people died of an AIDS related illness in 2015.

The legislation also protects people from undergoing a HIV test, medical treatment or research without their consent.

A person would not be force to disclose their status unless a court order requires it.

India’s Health Minister J. P. Nadda told the Press Trust of India the bill was ‘historic’ and promised action ‘against those who create hatred against HIV patients.’

A good move, but it’s flawed

The legislation was welcomed by some HIV organizations but not everybody was happy with one part of the bill.

The new law requires all state governments establish an ombudsman to investigate violations of the new law. Another clause requires the government must provide free treatment ‘as far as possible’.