DRT holds coordination meet in Mkg

The first coordination meeting of Discrimination Response Team (DRT) under the Care and Support Centre (Vihaan), NMP+, Mokokchung, was held at Black & White Restaurant.
Formed in 2014, DRT was established by the Network of Mokokchung People Living with HIV/AIDS in order to respond to any case of discrimination meted out to PLHAs in the district. The team comprised of police, students leaders, administration, journalists, doctors and social workers.
The main objective of the DRT was not only to actively intervene during cases of discrimination but also to play a proactive role in educating and creating awareness in the society especially with regard to HIV/AIDS.
After coordination meet, DRT resolved to actively intervene not only in cases involving PLHAs but all cases of discrimination related to health institutions or society, which has been silently meted out to people. DRT members also resolved to avail all available resources at their disposal like court, police, media and NGOs so that any case of discrimination would not be tolerated.
During the first co-ordination meeting, NMP+ advisor and Project Coordinator (CSC Vihaan), Toshi Sangpi, highlighted the HIV/AIDS scenario in Mokokchung district and some unfortunate incidents that had happened in the past which led suicide cases. He also cited incidents where relatives discriminated their PLHAs and health workers. Considering all these cases, he challenged DRT members to play proactive role when such incidents happen.
Mokokchung SDPO, Imnalensa (IPS), who is also the member of DRT, has appreciated NMP+ for their initiative and assured full support and cooperation in the event of discrimination against the members. He said police would always be there to maintain law and order, to prevent crimes and to nab criminal.
He also asserted that every citizen has a responsibility in the society to empower the citizens and discharge their responsibility for the betterment of the society.
President NMP+, Temsu Jamir, has welcomed all the members and appreciated them for their time and concern towards the cause.
Network of Mokokchung People Living with HIV/AIDS (NMP+) was formed in the year 2008. Since its formation, NMP+ has been actively involved in the field of HIV/AIDS in the society and has been contributing immensely to fight against HIV/AIDS through targeted intervention, creating mass awareness and fighting against stigma and discrimination in the society.