A hospital in Kolkata's Manicktala area has announced that it will no longer admit Bangladeshi patients, attributing the decision to recent incidents involving disrespect toward the Indian flag during protests in Bangladesh. The protests reportedly stemmed from allegations of atrocities against minority Hindus in the neighboring country.
J.N. Ray Hospital made the announcement through a notification issued on Friday, stating the suspension of services to Bangladeshi patients would remain in effect indefinitely. Hospital official Subhranshu Bhakt explained that the decision was a response to perceived anti-India sentiments and urged other healthcare institutions in Kolkata to adopt similar measures.
"We have issued a notification that from today until further notice, we will not admit any Bangladeshi patient for treatment. This is primarily because of the insults they have shown towards India," Bhakt told PTI.
The official emphasized the hospital's stand as a reaction to the alleged disrespect toward the Indian national flag and as a protest against the mistreatment of minority communities in Bangladesh. He also highlighted India's historical role in Bangladesh's independence, expressing disappointment over the rise of anti-India sentiment despite this support.
"Seeing the tricolour being insulted, we have decided to stop treating Bangladeshis. India has played an important role in their independence, but despite that, we are witnessing anti-India sentiments. We hope other hospitals will support us and take similar steps," Bhakt added.
The hospital's decision has drawn attention to the ongoing tensions between the two nations and raised questions about the ethical considerations of denying medical treatment based on nationality.