The vigil was one of eight city-centre events to be held across India marking the deaths of the more than 4 million people who have succumbed to the virus in the country so far.

 

They helped kick-off Global Aids Week, which involves more than 25 countries across the world demanding more resources to fight HIV&AIDS and raise awareness of the perspectives and priorities of people living with the virus.

 

Attended by a cross-section of the public, including many HIV-positive people, their families and supporters, the vigil was also organised to help maintain pressure on G8 countries to honour their 2005 pledge of universal treatment for all.

 

“This is not just about raising awareness but about campaigning for what governments promised us two years ago,” said ActionAid campaign coordinator Aditi Sharma.

 

Governments worldwide are falling behind the internationally-accepted targets for AIDS treatment. Each day, 8,000 people living with HIV/AIDS die and 13,000 become HIV-positive. 

“Things have come a long way,” said Celina D’Costa, National Advocacy Officer for the Indian Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS and herself HIV-positive. “The stigma of having AIDS has been greatly reduced, especially in the cities. But what we now need is for everyone affected to have access to treatment.”

 

Actress and social activist, Nafisa Ali, was guest of honour at Sunday’s memorial event in Delhi and one of several people who addressed the crowd.

 

Also present was Indian MP, Jesu Das Seelam. “We are here to send a message to all those suffering and affected by HIV/AIDS – the message is that we are here with you,” he said.

 

To read more about what took place please click here

If you have have any questions about the AIDS Week please contact globalaidsweek@actionaid.org