IndiaThe Goa state assembly passed the Goa Children's (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to remove references to 'leprosy' from the state's child protection laws to reduce social stigma and discrimination against individuals affected by the disease. Introduced by State Women and Child Development Minister Vishwajit Rane, the bill amends the Goa Children's Act, 2003, by removing 'leprosy' from Sections 2 and 5 of the law. These sections previously included leprosy alongside HIV as conditions associated with social stigma. The amendment aligns the law with a Supreme Court order issued on May 7, 2025, and will take effect after the governor's assent. The change has no financial impact and does not require delegated legislation.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the legislative action in a neutral tone, focusing on the legal and social implications of the amendment without overtly favoring any political ideology. It reports the introduction and passage of the bill by the state assembly, citing official sources such as the minister and a
