Rupnagar/Nangal, August 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Special Monitor Dr. Pradeepta Kumar Nayak held one-to-one interactions with 64 persons affected by leprosy at two Kusht Ashrams in Rupnagar district on Thursday, focusing on their human rights, dignity, social inclusion and access to government welfare services.
Dr. Nayak, along with Rupnagar District Leprosy Officer-cum-Skin Specialist Dr. Amandeep Kaur and surgeon Dr. Sandeep Mavi, interacted individually with 37 residents of Guru Nanak Kusht Ashram in Rupnagar and 27 residents of Shri Ram Kusht Ashram in Nangal.
During the interactions, the residents were informed about their rights and entitlements as persons affected by leprosy. The discussions particularly stressed equality, dignity, social acceptance and access to available government welfare schemes and support services.
Dr. Nayak underlined the need for greater compassion and empathy towards people affected by leprosy, noting that many residents of the ashrams live in difficult socio-economic conditions and continue to face social stigma.
The residents were also informed that leprosy is completely curable if diagnosed and treated in time. Early detection and appropriate treatment can prevent disability and enable affected persons to lead healthy and dignified lives.
The initiative sought to address not only health-related concerns but also the social barriers and discrimination associated with leprosy. It reinforced the message that the disease should not become a basis for social exclusion.
The interaction also highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts among healthcare workers, government departments and the wider community for early detection, treatment, rehabilitation and the social inclusion of persons affected by leprosy.
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