IndiaThe Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS) has denied claims that HIV testing has been made mandatory in colleges across the state. These claims were based on a misinterpretation of data regarding antiretroviral therapy (ART) recipients. KSAPS clarified that 39,028 individuals aged 18–35 have received ART since 2004, but this does not mean 7,000 college students are HIV-positive. The organization emphasized that HIV testing remains voluntary under the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017. As part of the Mobilisation for AIDS Suraksha (MAS) program, students are encouraged to use a self-risk assessment QR code to determine their likelihood of infection and seek further testing if needed. Karnataka ranks third in India for the number of people living with HIV, according to recent national reports.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of KSAPS's denial of mandatory HIV testing in colleges, clarifying misunderstandings in media reports. It includes direct quotes from KSAPS and contextualizes the issue within the state’s HIV situation without overtly favoring any side. No biased language or o
