Section 377 stopping the drive against AIDS: Ramadoss

8220;In order to intervene in this crucial segment, access is needed and Section 377 law prohibiting homosexuality makes it difficult. If this goes, it will help a great deal in de-stigmatisation and improve access to the target groups. Having a good judicial verdict in some on-going cases will have a positive effect on our efforts,8221; Ramadoss said inaugurating a photo exhibition on AIDS awareness at a Delhi Metro station.

He said the Ministry was lobbying with concerned agencies for removal of Section 377 as it is impending the government8217;s programme to control the menace.

Noting that the country8217;s AIDS control programme has started showing results with incidence of AIDS started declining, he said the Government is expanding the AIDS control measures to new areas also.

8220;India8217;s dedicated focus on HIV prevention is fetching dividends. We are seeing the beginning of the stabilisation of the epidemic in the country,8221; he said. The Minister had earlier favoured legalising homosexuality and removing discrimination against other vulnerable sections like sex workers in order to contain spread of the dreaded disease.