Summary:
- JN Ray Hospital in Kolkata has indefinitely stopped treating Bangladeshi patients due to alleged disrespect towards the Indian flag by Bangladeshi nationals.
- The hospital’s decision is part of a protest against perceived anti-Indian sentiments and calls for other Kolkata hospitals to adopt similar measures.
- This action follows incidents in Bangladesh where Indian and Israeli flags were reportedly desecrated during protests at university campuses.
- The situation has heightened tensions between India and Bangladesh, with historical ties being tested amid these recent developments.
In a significant development, JN Ray Hospital in Kolkata has announced an indefinite suspension of medical services to Bangladeshi patients. This decision, effective immediately, comes amid rising tensions following incidents of flag desecration at several universities in Bangladesh, including the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). The hospital’s move is seen as a response to perceived anti-Indian sentiments in Bangladesh.
Subhranshu Bhakt, an official from JN Ray Hospital, confirmed the decision to the Press Trust of India (PTI), stating that the hospital will not admit or treat Bangladeshi nationals for an unspecified period. Bhakt highlighted that this action was prompted by what he described as disrespect towards the Indian flag by Bangladeshi citizens. He further mentioned that discussions are ongoing with other hospitals in Kolkata and West Bengal to consider similar measures.
The controversy stems from recent protests in Bangladesh where demonstrators allegedly walked over Indian and Israeli flag designs on university campuses. These actions have sparked outrage among Indian citizens, leading to calls for reciprocal measures. The protests reportedly began over issues related to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and have since expanded to include broader grievances.
India played a crucial role in Bangladesh’s liberation war in 1971, and the current situation has evoked strong reactions due to the historical ties between the two nations. The decision by JN Ray Hospital has been met with mixed reactions, with some supporting the stance as a necessary protest against perceived anti-Indian activities, while others express concern over the humanitarian implications of denying medical care.
This development follows a separate incident where a violent protest occurred outside the Deputy High Commission of Bangladesh in Kolkata. The protest was organized by a Hindu group and involved the desecration of the Bangladeshi national flag, further straining diplomatic relations between the two countries.
As tensions continue to simmer, both nations are urged to engage in dialogue to address these issues diplomatically. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for cross-border relations and healthcare access for Bangladeshi nationals seeking treatment in India.
Source: Daily Inqilab
