In Brief
This public interest litigation challenged the failure of the Indian government to effectively implement leprosy eradication programmes despite the availability of a cure (MDT) since 1981. The Court found that nearly 2 lakh new cases are reported annually due to government apathy, and persons affected by leprosy face widespread discrimination in healthcare, education, banking, and housing. Treating leprosy as a social stigma despite its scientific curability violates constitutional rights to equality and dignity. The Court issued comprehensive directions requiring the Union and States to conduct periodic surveys, publish reports, run awareness campaigns, ensure free MDT availability at all health centres, eliminate discriminatory treatment in hospitals and schools, provide rehabilitation and livelihood support, and formulate rules for disability assessment of affected persons."
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