Kolkata’s JN Ray Hospital, however, said it will no longer admit patients from Bangladesh. The decision comes as Bangladesh faces reports of violence against Hindus and of poor treatment of the Indian flag.
Why Did the Hospital Take This Step?
Our action is against the violence and also against the insults, the hospital, based in the Manicktala area, said. ‘We won’t be accepting Bangladeshi patients from today,’ Subhranshu Bhakt, hospital official, said.
We are protesting against the atrocities on minorities in Bangladesh and the disrespect shown to our tricolour,” she said. Bhakt also demanded that other hospitals in Kolkata not accept Bangladeshi patients.
Attacks on Hindu Temples in Bangladesh
Attacks on Hindu temples in Chattogram, Bangladesh, preceded the hospital’s decision.
Shantaneshwari Kalibari Temple.ed with attacks on Hindu temples in Chattogram, Bangladesh. On Friday, a mob vandalised three temples:
• Shantaneshwari Matri Temple
• Shoni Temple
• Shantaneshwari Kalibari Temple.
The attack happened in the Harish Chandra Munsef Lane area around 2:30 PM. Bricks were thrown at the temples by a group of hundreds of shouting slogans. The incident occurred, police confirmed, but they say damage was minimal. “The mob came after Juma prayers, shouting anti Hindu slogans,” explained Tapan Das, a member of temple committee. The only way to control the situation was to call the Army.”
Protests Over Chinmoy Krishna Das’s Arrest
Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu spiritual leader, was arrested earlier this week and the attacks followed that. The Hindu community in Dhaka, Chattogram and other cites protested his arrest on sedition charges and denial of bail.
India’s Concern Over Violence
India has expressed concern over the increasing violence against minorities in Bangladesh. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told Parliament that it is Bangladesh’s responsibility to protect its minorities. He condemned the violence and extremist rhetoric, calling it unacceptable.
Rising Tensions Between Neighbours
The situation has caused tension between India and Bangladesh. While the hospital’s decision is a form of protest, it highlights the growing strain over the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh.
Both countries face pressure to maintain peace and ensure safety for all communities. The Hindu minority in Bangladesh continues to face challenges, raising concerns on both sides of the border.
