Medical services at the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital in Dhaka remain completely suspended for the fourth consecutive day (Saturday, May 31), following recent clashes between hospital staff and injured participants of the July uprising. As a result, countless patients have been forced to return home without receiving treatment.
The deadlock began on Wednesday, May 28. Since then, the hospital has remained non-functional, with no clear indication from the authorities as to when normal services will resume.
During a visit around noon on Saturday, no doctors or nurses were found present at the hospital. Patients from across the country, including those returning for follow-ups, were seen leaving disappointed and frustrated. Many stood waiting outside the hospital gates from early morning, only to return empty-handed.
Patients expressed outrage over the prolonged suspension of services at a public hospital, questioning the government’s inaction. “Where are ordinary people supposed to go for treatment? We can’t afford private hospitals,” said one distressed visitor.
On Friday, May 30, a meeting was held among the hospital secretary, hospital representatives, and student leaders in an attempt to resolve the crisis, but it ended without a resolution.
According to hospital sources, all medical services are currently halted. Staff members have voiced serious concerns over their safety, citing repeated incidents of vandalism and attacks inside the hospital. Many doctors and employees are reportedly too fearful to return to work.
Acting hospital director Dr. Jane Alam told the media that they are in contact with relevant authorities to restore normalcy. However, doctors and staff are unwilling to resume duties until their safety is guaranteed.
Background of the Incident:
The unrest was triggered after four injured participants of the July movement, receiving treatment at the hospital, attempted suicide by ingesting poison last Sunday. They protested the lack of proper medical care and rehabilitation. On Tuesday, with the help of fellow protesters, they confined the hospital director for over 90 minutes. Some reportedly prepared to self-immolate using kerosene and petrol, according to police.
In response to the hostage situation and suicide attempts, hospital staff launched a work stoppage on Wednesday morning, demanding stronger security measures. Clashes soon broke out between staff and the protesters, with some attendants of outpatient visitors also joining the confrontation.
One hospital doctor claimed that the injured protesters even stormed the residential quarters of staff and chanted slogans demanding punishment for employees.
Initially, police attempted to bring the situation under control. Later, members of the Coast Guard and the army were deployed to stabilize the situation. Despite this, the continued strike and fear among staff have led to a complete suspension of hospital services.
