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29 September 2024
Statement of BNP Health Affairs Secretary Dr. Rafiqul Islam 

Attacks on doctors and medical staff have become a daily occurrence. Since the fall of the autocracy on August 5, attacks on hospitals have continued regularly. In line with this trend, there was an attack at Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital on September 27. Following the death of a child, the child’s relatives physically assaulted Assistant Registrar of the Pediatrics Department, Saifa Mohsena Prima. At the same time, intern doctors, nurses, and other staff were also assaulted, creating a terrifying situation due to the violence by the patient’s family members. The physical assault of a female doctor in such a manner is extremely unfortunate and inhumane.

No one desires the death of a patient, and a doctor always tries their utmost to save lives. However, such incidents keep happening repeatedly, which is a matter of deep concern. Despite repeated demands and protests, the authorities have failed to ensure the safety of doctors and hospitals. The authorities must take responsibility for this failure.

In this situation, I demand the immediate provision of safety for all those involved in healthcare. I also demand the arrest of those responsible for this disgraceful incident.

I appeal to the relevant authorities to promptly implement and enforce a patient- and healthcare-friendly Health Protection Law, based on expert opinions and with the participation of all concerned parties in the health sector.