The Goa state assembly has approved the Goa Children’s (Amendment) Bill, 2026. This legislation aims to eliminate references to “leprosy” in child protection laws. The change is intended to combat the social stigma and discrimination faced by individuals affected by the disease.
It was later passed in the House by voice vote. State Women and Child Development Minister Vishwajit Rane introduced the bill, seeking to amend the Goa Children’s Act, 2003, in the assembly on Tuesday. The amendment has been brought to remove social stigma and discrimination against persons affected by leprosy and bring the state law in line with a Supreme Court order dated May 7, 2025, as per the statement of objects and reasons.
The bill sought to omit the word “leprosy” from two provisions of the principal Act.
The provision prohibits healthcare facilities and hospitals from denying treatment or admission to children or pregnant mothers suffering from conditions associated with social stigma. It also removes the reference to leprosy from Section 5 relating to health and nutrition.
Under Section 2 dealing with definitions, the amendment removes “leprosy” from a provision that earlier referred to it along with HIV as an illness carrying social stigma.
Immediate Implementation of Amendment Following Governor’s Assent
The recently proposed amendment will take effect immediately upon receiving the governor’s approval. It has been confirmed that the amendment will not have any financial implications and does not involve any delegated legislation.
