The Indian Medical Association (IMA) took stand against boycotting Bangladeshi patients seeking medical treatment in India. 

Meanwhile, the Bengal Chamber of Commerce has warned against allowing recent tensions to disrupt trade between the two nations.

At a press conference on Wednesday (Dec 4), IMA members and Doctors N. Kanjilal and Kaushik Chowdhury emphasized the need to continue providing healthcare services to Bangladeshi patients. 

They firmly said that Bangladeshi patients must not be denied treatment or harassed under any circumstances and urged doctors to act with greater compassion.

The IMA noted that ongoing instability has impacted both Bangladeshi patients and India’s medical tourism industry financially. 

The association expressed optimism that the issues would soon be resolved. 

Additionally, they announced plans to launch a helpline specifically for Bangladeshi patients to facilitate their medical needs and provide assistance.

Earlier, J.N. Roy Hospital in Kolkata announced on social media last Friday (Nov 29) that it would temporarily refuse to treat Bangladeshi patients due to the prevailing situation. Dr. Subhranshu Bhakta of the hospital publicly endorsed the decision and encouraged other medical professionals to follow suit. 

However, the move drew sharp criticism from West Bengal Minister and Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim, who called it a violation of the ethical responsibilities of healthcare providers.

Separately, the Bengal Chamber of Commerce stated that ongoing tensions should not affect trade relations between the two countries. 

Anirban Gupta, secretary of the chamber’s toy division, underscored the importance of maintaining strong business ties and avoiding political influence on commercial matters.

Bangladesh's Economic Adviser, Salehuddin Ahmed, has also reaffirmed that political issues should not interfere with commercial ties between the two countries.

BDST: 2029 HRS, DEC 04, 2024
MSK