Alarming Rise in HIV Cases in West Bengal’s Bardhaman: 30 High-Profile Individuals Tested Positive

In a development that has caused serious concern among health authorities, around 30 socially influential and professionally established individuals in Bardhaman town of Purba, Bardhaman district in West Bengal have tested HIV positive, according to official data from the district health department. Those identified include reputed doctors, university professors, teachers, and senior corporate officials, source claimed. Health department sources revealed that several of the individuals had been suffering from prolonged illnesses, prompting medical examinations. Subsequent tests confirmed HIV infection. Investigations have also brought to light a disturbing trend—most of the infected individuals reportedly came into contact with one another through

social media platforms. Experts believe that lack of adequate awareness and engagement in unsafe physical relationships, despite high levels of education, played a major role in the spread of the infection.The revelation has sent shockwaves through the district administration. Purba Bardhaman Zilla Parishad’s Karmadhyaksha for Public Health, Biswanath Roy stated that multiple new HIV cases have surfaced recently, with as many as 30 cases reported from Bardhaman town alone. He expressed surprise that all those affected belong to financially stable and socially well-established families.

Experts Identify Key Causes

Health experts have pointed out several contributing factors:1) Lack of Awareness:Persistent misconceptions about HIV/AIDS within educated sections of society and a tendency to maintain secrecy.2) Misuse of Social Media: Increased intimacy with strangers through digital platforms without adequate caution.3) Reluctance to Get Tested: Avoidance of medical tests even after early symptoms appear, largely due to social stigma and fear of embarrassment.Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH) Jayram Hembrom expressed deep concern, stating, “Despite extensive awareness campaigns, such negligence is deeply troubling. We have increased the number of HIV tests across the district.”Meanwhile, Matiur Rahman, head of a local voluntary organization, warned that the growing inclination toward unsafe relationships among the youth is a serious danger signal for the future.In response, the district administration is now treating the matter with utmost seriousness and is planning targeted awareness programs in affluent residential areas and educational institutions to curb further spread of the infection.