OMBUDSMEN IN INDIA UNDER THE HIV/AIDS (PREVENTION AND CONTROL), ACT 2017 WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE STATE OF MIZORAM

Abstract

This study critically discuss the effectiveness of the Ombudsman mechanism provided by the HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017 with specific reference to the State of Mizoram. The Act establishes a rights-based approach to combating HIV and AIDS-related discrimination and access to grievance redressal. The study uses data gathered via questionnaires with 301 PLHIV respondents from selected ICTC centres in Aizawl and 42 officials from various government and health institutions to analyse awareness, accessibility, record keeping, complaint resolution and institutional coordination with regard to the Ombudsman system. These findings indicate low awareness of PLHIV, gaps in institutional knowledge, limited interaction with the Ombudsman, inadequate documentation and poor follow up. While the Ombudsman mechanism has a legal importance, the study suggests that its effectiveness would benefit from increased awareness of its value, training of Ombudsmen staff, standardization of reporting, easy access to complaint channels and regular monitoring. The paper recommends that the Ombudsman system be strengthened and effective implementation of HIV/AIDS Act, 2017 in Mizoram must be achieved.