Delegation of Nippon Foundation, Japan visits NHRC
A delegation headed by Mr. Yohie Sasakawa, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination and Chairman of the Nippon Foundation, Japan visited the NHRC on the 2nd August, 2011 and met NHRC Chairperson, Mr. Justice K.G. Balakrishnan and senior officers.
Mr. Sasakawa said that in India there are many Acts which in one way or the other make an impact on the interests of leprosy-affected persons. Some of these Acts need to be reviewed and recast as these give a wrong picture about leprosy to society. In this context, he particularly highlighted the need of modifications in the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
Mr. Justice K.G. Balakrishnan said that the NHRC will extend all possible help to remove discrimination against leprosy-affected persons and the stigma attached to them. He also said that the Commission could make a general appeal to the Government of India and State Governments to look into the needs and requirements of leprosy-affected persons, including the possibility of giving pension to them.
Mr. Sasakawa said that in India there are many Acts which in one way or the other make an impact on the interests of leprosy-affected persons. Some of these Acts need to be reviewed and recast as these give a wrong picture about leprosy to society. In this context, he particularly highlighted the need of modifications in the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
Mr. Justice K.G. Balakrishnan said that the NHRC will extend all possible help to remove discrimination against leprosy-affected persons and the stigma attached to them. He also said that the Commission could make a general appeal to the Government of India and State Governments to look into the needs and requirements of leprosy-affected persons, including the possibility of giving pension to them.