Kolkata hospital denies treatment to Bangladeshi patients over 'disrespect' to Indian flag
According to hospital officials, the move is a direct response to recent incidents where the Indian flag was allegedly insulted by Bangladeshi nationals. (Representative image) Photograph:( Others )
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Subhranshu Bhakta, the hospital's director, explained that while medical care is a noble profession, the dignity of the nation takes precedence.
Subhranshu Bhakta, the hospital's director, explained that while medical care is a noble profession, the dignity of the nation takes precedence.
A hospital in the Indian city of Kolkata has announced it will no longer admit patients from Bangladesh, citing disrespect towards the Indian flag and growing concerns over the treatment of Hindus in the neighbouring country.
JN Ray Hospital, located in Maniktala, a residential area of North Kolkata, made the decision public on Friday (Nov 29). According to hospital officials, the move is a direct response to recent incidents where the Indian flag was allegedly insulted by Bangladeshi nationals.
The hospital stands firm on National dignity
Subhranshu Bhakta, the hospital's director, explained that while medical care is a noble profession, the dignity of the nation takes precedence. "Country is above all. Nothing can happen above the country. Medical service is a noble profession, but the dignity of the country is paramount," Bhakta stated.
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He added that the hospital will stop treating patients from Bangladesh until further notice. "We have issued a notification that from today till an indefinite time we will not admit any Bangladeshi patient for treatment. This is primarily because of the insults they have shown towards India," Bhakta said.
Bhakta also called on other hospitals in Kolkata and across India to follow suit, urging them to join the protest against the alleged atrocities on Hindus in Bangladesh.
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"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," Bhakta added.
The move comes amid rising tensions over reports of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. These incidents have drawn criticism in India, prompting the Ministry of External Affairs to urge Bangladesh to protect its minority communities.
(With inputs from agencies)
