The Meghalaya government is examining the possibility of making HIV/AIDS testing mandatory before marriage, Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh said on Friday. The proposal is being considered in response to the rising number of HIV cases in the state.

According to Lyngdoh, Meghalaya currently ranks sixth in the country for HIV/AIDS prevalence, with the Northeast region as a whole facing a considerable health burden.

“If Goa has made testing compulsory, why shouldn’t Meghalaya have its own law? This initiative would serve the greater public good,” the minister stated, indicating the government’s intention to explore legislative measures.