Alarming spread of HIV AIDS among Odisha's ‘homosexual’ youths in hostels & messes spurs health concerns

A shocking report has emerged highlighting a disturbing trend inside hostels and messes across Odisha. Beyond the growing menace of drugs, a new and alarming factor is fuelling the spread of HIV/AIDS among the youth and that is unsafe ‘homosexual encounters’.

According to reports, unsafe male-to-male sexual contact has become one of the key reasons behind the rising prevalence of AIDS in the state. This has put the young generation at severe risk, especially students residing in hostels and rented accommodations.

Earlier, drug addiction was considered the biggest concern in educational institutions. But now, the situation has turned even more dangerous, with many hostel residents reportedly testing HIV positive. Authorities claim that a growing number of young men are getting drawn towards risky and unnatural sexual activities, making boys’ hostels and messes hotspots for the spread of infection.

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Odisha State AIDS Control Society (OSACS) report reveals that more than 40% of HIV infections in the state are found among the youth, with the majority of cases reported in the 19–35 age group, particularly students.

"A new thing has been found that homosexual relationships are increasing. It is a matter of concern. Youth are getting affected by HIV/AIDS due to this. It is happening in educational institutions and public. People are getting affected due to unnatural physical relationship," said OSACS project director Dr Santosh Swain.

A letter from the Health Department to the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs has raised serious concerns about the rising vulnerability of Odisha’s youth to HIV-AIDS. The communication clearly states that despite advancements and awareness efforts over the years, young people remain at high risk of infection.

The letter points out several reasons behind the growing threat like lack of awareness, peer pressure, absence of youth-friendly health services, and unsafe sexual practices. It also highlights the rising trend of same-sex relationships in hostels, which is pushing young people further into danger. To counter this, the Health Department has urged the organization of awareness programs in sports hostels and other institutions across the state.

Earlier, migrant workers were considered the primary high-risk group for HIV spread, with Ganjam district recording the highest number of cases, followed by Cuttack and Khordha. However, recent data shows that Khordha district is now witnessing a steady rise in HIV infections. According to social workers engaged in AIDS awareness, unnatural and unsafe sexual practices remain the main cause. Alarmingly, instances have also been reported of young people engaging in sexual relations with members of the transgender community.

"Many institutions are involved in this. They (students) are away from homes and living in hostels for a long time. They are not aware about it. The unnatural relationship will destroy the world. They are not able to understand. They only indulged in entertainment. Can a male marry another male? They only get infection in the process," said social worker Abharani Choudhury.

As per official figures, by the end of July, a total of 65,214 HIV-positive cases had been identified in Odisha. Out of these, 26,737 are young people, with nearly 4,000 cases untraced or unregistered with government records.

This emerging trend underscores the urgent need for comprehensive awareness campaigns and accessible health facilities tailored to the youth.