Agartala, Dec 2: In response to recent alleged atrocities against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, ILS Hospital, the largest private healthcare facility in Agartala, has announced the suspension of services for Bangladeshi patients.
The decision followed a protest on Saturday, where a group of youths gathered outside the hospital chanting slogans like “Jai Shree Ram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” while waving the Indian national flag. The demonstrators demanded the hospital take a stand by halting services to Bangladeshi patients, citing disrespect toward India’s national symbols in Bangladesh.
“Children in Bangladesh are being taught behaviors that disrespect our national flag. While we bear no ill will towards any specific community or religion, the current circumstances demand action,” said Siddhartha Debnath, one of the protestors.
In response, Gautam Hazarika, Chief Operating Officer of ILS Hospital, announced the closure of the hospital’s Bangladesh desk. “As an Indian, I respect and support the sentiments expressed by the protestors. Considering the ongoing incidents in Bangladesh, we have decided to suspend services for Bangladeshi patients,” Hazarika stated, noting that there had already been a decline in patients from Bangladesh recently.
ILS Hospital has been a vital healthcare destination for hundreds of Bangladeshi patients due to its proximity to the border. This decision mirrors a similar move by a Kolkata healthcare facility, which also recently ceased treating Bangladeshi patients over related concerns.
