Chandel Rallies for HIV Awareness and Routine Testing

Imphal: Over 100 people marched through Chandel on Friday. The rally pushed for an HIV-free society and better access to regular testing. It ran from the DC Office Complex, through Chandel Bazaar, to the SDO Office. The event is part of the Integrated IEC Campaign 3.0, which spans from August 12 to October 12, 2026.

The District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit organized the march with backing from the National AIDS Control Organisation and the Manipur AIDS Control Society. Chandel Deputy Commissioner Mamoni Doley flagged off the crowd. She demanded mandatory testing for pregnant women and encouraged outreach to college students. Doley noted that modern medication allows patients to live healthy lives.

District AIDS Control Officer Dr. B. Cingdeihnieng highlighted the scale of the crisis. She reported that 610 people in the district currently rely on antiretroviral therapy. She pushed back against social bias during the event, stating, "HIV/AIDS has nothing to do with one’s character as one can also be infected during blood transfusion."

Local police, ASHA workers, students, and community volunteers joined the procession. SDPO Chandel Nongthongbam Ingocha also attended. Officials reminded the public that discriminating against those with the virus is a punishable offense under the law.