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Dhaka, June 12, 2025 : The National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital, Bangladesh’s only government-run eye hospital equipped with state-of-the-art technology worth approximately 600 crore taka, has been non-operational for the past 13 days. Reports indicate that medical services at the facility have been halted, with only a handful of individuals injured during the July uprising currently occupying the premises.
According to sources, the interim government is providing regular food supplies to these individuals, leading to claims on social media that the hospital, valued at 600 crore taka, is being used as a “residential hotel” by the July protesters. This situation has sparked concerns about the accessibility of critical eye care services for the general public, with thousands reportedly being deprived of treatment daily.
The hospital’s closure stems from a clash on May 28, 2025, between hospital staff, general patients, and individuals injured during the July uprising. The conflict led to a complete shutdown of medical services, except for limited emergency operations. The acting director, Dr. Jane Alam, confirmed that while the emergency department has resumed minimal services, other departments remain closed. Only 25 patients have received emergency care, and eight emergency surgeries have been performed in recent days, according to hospital authorities.
The situation has raised questions about the management of the facility and the ongoing tension between hospital staff and the July uprising victims. While the injured individuals demand better treatment and rehabilitation, hospital staff have cited safety concerns, leading to a work stoppage. The interim government has yet to address the issue comprehensively, leaving the hospital’s future operations uncertain.
AI/MR
