The Voice News:DHAKA- The National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital, Bangladesh’s only specialized public eye hospital, remains closed for 13 consecutive days after injured protesters from the July Movement took over the facility, effectively turning it into a “residential hotel.”
The interim government is reportedly providing regular meals to the protesters, while thousands of patients are being deprived of eye care services every day.
Occupation Begins After Clashes
The crisis began on May 28, when protesters allegedly assaulted doctors, nurses, and hospital staff during a confrontation over alleged mistreatment. Since then, no medical staff have resumed work, and all hospital operations remain suspended.
Multiple attempts by the Ministry of Health, DGHS, the Army, Police, and the Shaheed July Smriti Foundation have failed to resolve the standoff.
“We had to come to Dhaka for various reasons. Where else can we stay?” – an injured protester told Jago News.
Government Attempts Partial Reopening
In response to the crisis, the government reopened the emergency department on June 4 under police protection. A high-level medical board—comprising ophthalmologists from top institutions including DMCH, BMU, CMH, and Ispahani Eye Institute—was formed to assess the protesters’ medical needs.
Out of 54 injured individuals, 30 were examined. The board concluded that:
- Medical care provided was satisfactory.
- Patients should be discharged and follow up at nearby clinics if necessary.
- Critical cases may be referred to specialized hospitals.
- Immediate rehabilitation support should be provided.
Despite these recommendations, the injured tore up discharge papers and refused to leave the hospital.
Doctors Flee, Director Locked In
Tensions escalated again after the board’s visit. Protesters reportedly quarreled with doctors and confined Acting Director Dr. Janey Alam in his office until 6 PM. He was later escorted out under police protection.
“They refused all medical advice and locked me in. I had to agree to their demands for my own safety,” said Dr. Alam.
Several doctors and staff have since left the hospital, citing serious security threats.
Doctors, Staff Alarmed by Collapse
Healthcare professionals have condemned the occupation, emphasizing that a Tk 600-crore government hospital cannot be used as a residential shelter.
“Patients need treatment. This is not a boarding house,” said one hospital staff member.
Doctors also noted that some protesters made unrealistic demands—such as seeking treatment abroad—and questioned the legitimacy of globally renowned hospitals.
Only a Few Remain, Still No Resolution
As of June 6, only 7–8 protesters remain in the hospital. None have accepted formal discharge and are no longer receiving medical care.
“They’re staying here voluntarily. The hospital isn’t treating them anymore. It’s effectively a shelter now,” said Dr. Alam.
One of the injured, Md. Qorban Sheikh Hillol, told Jago News that their demands remain unresolved.
“Brother, this chaos was not our fault. We’ve appealed repeatedly. We just want a solution,” he said.
National Concern Grows
The unprecedented occupation has sparked national concern, as thousands of regular patients are being denied essential eye care. Health officials and hospital staff are calling for a lawful and humane resolution before the crisis escalates further.
