Minphong Konyak
Dimapur | December 2
Mon observed World HIV/AIDS day at the local ground with people from a wide spectrum of life in attendance. The need to direct action against eradication of the disease and extend care to the affected was the underlying message conveyed at the programme by speakers and people alike.
The chief guest, MLA Chingwang, while enlightening the gathering on the details of HIV/AIDS wanted that the community, particularly the youth populace, to spread the message of the need to fight against the malady. The MLA said that the disease should not be “hidden” but should be talked and discussed about “as any common topic”.
Mon Deputy Commissioner M Patton expressed alarm at the present rate of AIDS positive index in the state. He said that the 1.55 rate is just the tip of the iceberg for the fact that tests and records are restricted to some urban areas only. DC Patton regretted that test-and-survey action are not carried out in every part of Nagaland. He, however, added that if survey were to be carried on that scale, the index would be “dangerously enormous”. Patton opined that a proper survey needs to be carried out, patients identified and adequate care – both emotional and medical – be provided to them and through this, control the spread of HIV/AIDS in the state.
Delivering the keynote address, Shahkai Konyak, Secretary of Shansham Organization, highlighted the havoc created by the disease around the world and how millions of lives more are at stake if proper steps are not taken up with urgency to address the problem. He held opinion that HIV is not just a virus causing health problems and diseases but also a “socio-economic and political disease”. This scourge cannot be left to be attended to by only a section of the society, Konyak said and urged all to take December 1 as a reminder of the millions lost to the disease and reaffirm to commit oneself to fight back.
KBBB Executive Secretary Rev. Tonlong Konyak, also addressing the gathering, expressed concern of the church over the problems being caused by the disease. He said that every person is aware of the day’s theme ‘Stop AIDS: Keep the promise’ but “we seem only to say the ‘Stop AIDS’ part but are not keeping the promise.” He asserted that the promise can be kept if one lives the Christian way of life.
Also speaking at the programme, David Khing of Kuknalim Foundation Kohima, while being enthusiastic for more commitment, also solicited more accountability from the state in governing and managing the spread of AIDS in the state. “There will be noone to reap the fruits of the various developmental projects and schemes of the government unless a concerted effort is made to fight against AIDS at present” he said. He also recommended forming of a Mon chapter NNP+ to attend to the infected and affected. J Zumomi, Dy. Secretary Education who spoke as representative from the CFMC, Mon, regretted that the menace “was brought in by us while foolishly trying to copy the western vanities”. He stated that his government is much concerned for Nagas’ health as any other issue. He urged all to live a life of purity.
Later after the programme, an exhibition soccer match was played between Thamnan XI and Untd Maxi FC Mon. The match ended in a goalless draw. NR Kithan, ADP World Vision offered the vote of thanks while Pastor Kaipha said the benediction.
Morung Express News
