Goa passes bill to drop ‘leprosy’ references from child law to eliminate social stigma

Goa Assembly passes Bill to drop ‘leprosy’ references from child law to curb stigma The Goa State Assembly has approved the Goa Children’s (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to remove all references to “leprosy” from the state’s child protection laws. The move aims to reduce social stigma and discrimination against individuals affected by the disease. The bill was introduced by State Women and Child Development Minister Vishwajit Rane during a session held on Tuesday, September 2, 2026, and was subsequently passed by voice vote. The amendment aligns the state’s legal framework with a Supreme Court directive issued on May 7, 2025, which called for the removal of discriminatory language in public statutes. The proposed changes target two specific sections of the Goa Children’s Act, 2003. Under Section 2, which defines key terms related to child welfare, the word “leprosy” has been removed from a clause that previously listed it alongside HIV as illnesses linked to social stigma. This section outlines the scope of the act and clarifies which conditions are considered socially sensitive. Similarly, under Section 5, which addresses health and nutritional support for children and pregnant mothers, the term “leprosy” has been omitted from a provision that barred healthcare institutions from refusing treatment or admitting patients based on their medical condition. These amendments ensure that individuals affected by leprosy receive equal access to care without facing prejudice. The bill does not impose any additional financial burden on the government nor does it require the creation of new regulations through delegated legislation. Once the Governor gives his assent, the amended law will take effect immediately. According to the statement of objects and reasons accompanying the bill, the primary goal is to promote inclusivity and dignity for those living with leprosy, ensuring they are treated with respect within the legal system. Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disorder caused by Mycobacterium leprae. While treatable with multidrug therapy, the disease has historically carried severe societal consequences due to misconceptions about its transmission and effects. In many parts of India, including Goa, individuals affected by leprosy have faced marginalization, exclusion from communities, and even violence. The Supreme Court’s 2025 ruling emphasized the need to address such biases by updating outdated legal terminology. Minister Rane highlighted the importance of this legislative change during the debate. He stated that the inclusion of leprosy in legal documents had perpetuated negative stereotypes and hindered efforts to provide equitable services. By removing these references, the state hopes to foster a more compassionate and just environment for vulnerable groups. The minister also noted that the amendment reflects broader national efforts to combat stigma and promote human rights. Legal experts and activists have welcomed the decision, noting that it represents a crucial step toward eradicating discriminatory practices embedded in statutory language. They argue that such reforms are essential for creating a society where individuals are judged by their actions rather than the labels imposed upon them. However, some community leaders remain cautious, emphasizing the need for continued awareness campaigns to fully dismantle lingering prejudices. The passage of the bill marks a significant moment in Goa’s legal history, demonstrating the state’s commitment to progressive governance. As the Governor prepares to give his assent, the focus shifts to implementing the new provisions effectively. The success of this initiative will depend on how well local authorities enforce the updated laws and whether public attitudes evolve in tandem with the legal changes. For now, the Goa Assembly’s action stands as a clear signal of intent to uphold the principles of equality and non-discrimination.