pune slogans like know hiv end the stigma support those in need echoed during he programme organised in the city to mark the 28th aids candlelight memorial day on may 15 i have never seen such a huge turnout before remarked a 26 year old hiv positive patient as he saw the crowd ensemble to unanimously raise their hands and take a pledge to end stigma and discrimination i am moved by this gesture it will go a long way in boosting our morale he addedsunita an hiv peer counsellor from ngo deepgriha who participated in the event was equally moved she said this shows that the persons and the families of those who are no more due to hivaids are not alone in their struggle and have the support from the society ngos and even the government machinerythe pledge read we will not stigmatise people infected with hiv we will help them to live a healthy and positive lifewhile signature campaigns were conducted and rallies were organised during the day the evening saw near about 1000 city residents collectively pledging unflinching support to those living with hiv and committed them to end stigma and discrimination surrounding hiv at the candlelight vigil event on mg road the events were jointly organised by the wake up pune campaign deep griha society and centre for advocacy and research cfar