HIV patients suffer as pension remains unpaid for 11 months

Over 860 HIV-positive patients in Sirsa, who rely on government pensions for treatment and nutrition, have been struggling as their payments have been stalled for nearly a year. The last pension instalment was disbursed in February 2024, but election-related budget delays have halted further disbursements, leaving vulnerable patients in distress.

Sirsa’s District Civil Hospital currently treats 3,312 HIV-infected patients, out of which those eligible receive a monthly pension of Rs 2,250. Patients suffering from tuberculosis alongside HIV receive an additional Rs 500, bringing their total pension to Rs 2,750 per month. However, with no payments in 11 months, the pending amount has exceeded Rs 2.12 crore.

A patient expressed his hardship, saying, “Living with HIV is already difficult, but without financial aid, it has become unbearable. I visit the hospital regularly for updates, but there’s no clarity on when the funds will be released.”

The delay stems from the imposition of the model code of conduct due to the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. Officials from the Health Department have written to higher authorities requesting immediate fund allocation.

Despite these financial struggles, the civil hospital continues to conduct awareness campaigns on HIV prevention, particularly targeting drug users who are at high risk due to shared syringes. Deputy Civil Surgeon Dr Amit Sheoran assured that efforts are being made to expedite the release of pension.