07 October,2009 08:16 AM IST | | Alifiya Khan
While Delhi and Mumbai universities ignore UGC's directive to screen foreign students for HIV, Pune University continues with its discriminatory practice
The University of Pune (UoP) continues to enforce its policy on screening each foreign student, who seeks admission, for HIV and deports those who test positive. The university's discriminatory procedure, which flouts norms laid down by the National Aids Control Organisation (NACO), the nodal organisation for formulation of policy on HIV/AIDS in India, and the UN, has its roots in a University Grants Commission directive (UGC) that makes such a screening and subsequent deportation mandatory for all foreign students.u00a0
Different view
Interestingly, both Mumbai and Delhi universities have chosen to ignore the UGC's directive. "While not a single student has tested positive in the last four years, screening for HIV remains mandatory for all foreign students.
Positive results are reported to the university's International Students Centre, which initiates the deportation procedure. The last student who tested positive was denied admission," said Dr Deepak Phalgune, the medical officer, who oversees the tests for the university.
The UGC's discriminatory directive and the University of Pune's follow up on the subject are posted on the websites. "NACO guidelines clearly state that there shall be no discrimination against people with HIV/AIDS.
Also, taking a HIV test is a purely voluntary decision.
It can't be made mandatory. We will investigate this matter seriously and discuss the issue with senior officials at the university," said Mayank Agarwal, the joint director of NACO.
Unconstitutional
Dr I S Gilada, the founder of People's Health Organisation, an NGO engaged in helping those infected with HIV/AIDS, said the Pune University's mandatory tests violated a 2001 United Nations declaration issued in presence of Sonia Gandhi, who was representing India at the UN General Assembly. "India was part of the declaration, which promises that the country will not discriminate against HIV-positive individuals," said Gilada.
Anand Grover, a practicing lawyer and special rapporteur on health, appointed by the UN Human Rights Council and the director of the Lawyers Collective HIV/AIDS unit, said the UoP's discriminatory can be challenged in court. "The UoP's test is unconstitutional. It violates the provisions of Article 14 and 21 of the constitution, which assure the right to equality and right to life to all, including foreign nationals in Indian territory," said Grover.
Pune Universityu00a0 Vice Chancellor Dr Arun Adsool refused to comment on the subject despite repeated calls, emails and SMSes from this reporter. "He is busy as he has many meetings with foreign delegates," said PV Kulkarni, Adsool's assistant.
UGC representatives too refused to comment on the subject despite repeated attempts by our reporters.u00a0
