[🇧🇩] Those who are injured during student revolution

[Saif]

Ensure swift disbursement of funds for July victims

Why would the injured need to demand what should be readily given?

www.thedailystar.net

Ensure swift disbursement of funds for July victims
Why would the injured need to demand what should be readily given?

VISUAL: STAR

We are quite troubled to see that a street protest—that too for about 14 hours—had to occur for those injured in the July-August uprising to put the spotlight on their grievances surrounding treatment, promised compensation, and rehabilitation. This is an issue that should not have arisen in the first place. Those who suffered injuries or lost their loved ones during the movement to bring down a fascist regime deserve our gratitude and sincere cooperation, not the frustration of having to fight once more to receive basic support.

Reportedly, a group of injured protesters staged a sit-in in front of the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR) after Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum visited the hospital but apparently met only a few of the injured, triggering angry reactions among others. This led to a prolonged road blockade that stretched into early Thursday. The protesters, later joined by patients from the nearby National Institute of Opthalmology & Hospital (NIOH), were still bearing the scars of the uprising, many with bandages or using crutches or wheelchairs. As well as expressing their grievances, they also called for the resignation of the health adviser. It was only after the intervention of four government advisers late at night that they agreed to return to their hospitals.

It may be recalled that at least 873 individuals lost their lives, and 19,931 were injured, during the uprising. So far, the health authorities have taken various measures to assist the affected and their families. Government hospitals have been providing free treatment, and doctors from abroad have been brought in to address complex injuries. Meanwhile, according to an estimate given by the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation, the families of 200 deceased, and over 500 injured individuals, have received compensation so far.

That means a large number of the victims are still waiting for compensation, even after over three months, while some require advanced treatment which is not possible in local hospitals. These issues coupled with concerns over their rehabilitation have deepened frustrations. The delayed release of funds is apparently due to verification issues as many claimants still needed further documentation. However, Sarjis Alam, general secretary of the foundation, stressed that once the verification process is completed, funds can be released to 500 people every day, and that everyone would get their compensation by December. The government, after Wednesday's protests, also promised to devise a framework for the treatment and rehabilitation of the injured, in consultation with the latter, and implement it by December.

We are encouraged to hear that, but we must urge the authorities to ensure nothing comes in the way of fulfilling these promises. The July victims and their families have already endured unimaginable hardships; it is our duty to ensure they are given the dignity, care, and support they deserve. To meet the deadlines set by the government, it is also vital to streamline these processes to reduce the chances of bureaucratic delays or obstacles.​

 

[Saif]

Injured of uprising to get lifetime healthcare

The interim government on Thursday announced that the people injured in July-August student-led mass uprising will get a lifetime free medical services at all government hospitals...

www.newagebd.net

Injured of uprising to get lifetime healthcare
Staff Correspondent 15 November, 2024, 00:15

One of the injured victims in the student-led mass uprising gets on a car to attend the meeting with the interim government advisers at the secretariat in Dhaka on Thursday. | New Age photo

The interim government on Thursday announced that the people injured in July-August student-led mass uprising will get a lifetime free medical services at all government hospitals.

The decision was made in a meeting between the interim government’s six advisers and around a hundred representatives from the injured at the secretariat following the overnight street protests by the injured.

Md Sayedur Rahman, newly appointed special assistant to the health and family welfare adviser, told the media that the injured people will have a unique ID card, through which all benefits for the injured will be ensured.

‘A written draft outline will be presented to everyone within the next five working days, and by reviewing this written outline alongside the timeline, you will be able to understand whether we are progressing on the commitments we have made,’ he told the protesters.

‘We hope that all of these will be visible by December,’ he added.

The injured will get services free of charge also in private hospitals with which the government has an agreement, said a press release from the health ministry.

The government will establish a support centre by November 17 to address all complaints from the injured, reimburse them the treatment expenses upon submission of appropriate documentation, and integrate all specialised hospitals, including private hospital, into a unified support network for the best treatment, said the press release.

The government also committed to provide dedicated beds for the injured at all hospitals, bring the victims with mental trauma under the telemedicine network, arranging appropriate training and employment opportunity based on education and abilities for individuals who lost their eyesight, and ensuring necessary machines, medical services, and equipment for those with physical disabilities.

‘We aim to quickly implement the short-term plans and bring the long-term plans to a visible stage as soon as possible,’ said the information and broadcasting adviser Nahid Islam.

Livestock adviser Farida Akhter, local government adviser Asif Mahmud, adviser Mahfuj Alam, Social Welfare Advisor Sharmin S Murshid, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement convener Hasnat Abdullah and July Shaheed Smriti Foundation general secretary Sarjis Alam were present at the meeting.

The meeting was held after protesters blocked the road in front of the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation from 2:00pm on Wednesday to around 2:30am on Thursday over negligence in treatment and rehabilitation of them.

The protesters, undergoing treatment at hospitals, including the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation and the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital, took to the street after health adviser Nurjahan Begum, who had visited NITOR at 11:30am, left without meeting all of them.

As the aggrieved protesters cordoned off the health adviser’s vehicle, the health adviser Nurjahan and British high commissioner Sarah Cook were forced to leave NITOR in another vehicle.

Later at night, they lifted the blockade following assurances from law adviser Asif Nazrul, adviser Mahfuj Alam, fisheries and livestock adviser Farida Akhter, local government adviser Asif Mahmud, and special assistant for health Md Sayedur Rahman to address their demands.

During the blockade, the protesters expressed their frustration over negligence in treatment and rehabilitation, as well as delays in the disbursement of funds from the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation.​

 

[Saif]

Injured protesters place 7-point demand

A group of protesters undergoing treatment for injuries suffered during the mass uprising demonstrated in front of NITOR yesterday

www.thedailystar.net

Injured protesters place 7-point demand

Photo: Star

A delegation of those injured during the July-August uprising presented their seven-point demand in a meeting with government advisers at the Secretariat that started at 4:40pm.

One of the demands is that the state must ensure the same standard of medical treatment for those injured that would have been provided to a minister or adviser to the interim government.

In the press release for the seven points, signed by Zihad Islam, a coordinator of the martyrs' families and injured of the uprising, they also said the medical expenses of the injured ones who received treatment at their own costs must be reimbursed.

Another demand was that the injured and the martyred be issued special cards and provided with a special monthly allowance for another generation along with their rehabilitation.

They made the demand for a museum by the name of "Smriti Foundation" commemorating those killed or injured during the mass uprising of 2024, and an annual mass signature campaign programme between July 1 and August 5.

They called for the formation of an independent probe committee to examine the medical files of those killed or those who lost limbs in the mass uprising, and legal action if any proof of medical negligence is found.

They also called for the swift prosecution of Awami League and its complicit forces, and a ban on these organisations.

They also demanded the accommodation of the voice of wounded protesters and families of those killed in the state reform initiatives of the future.

A group of protesters undergoing treatment for injuries suffered during the July-August mass uprising demonstrated in front of the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR) yesterday with various demands, including better treatment and government assistance.

The protesters relented and agreed to return to their hospitals with the assurance of support and quick release of funds after four advisers went to NITOR at 2:30am today and assured the protesters of proper treatment and rehabilitation.

The advisers last night offered to hold a meeting this afternoon with the representatives from among the protesters.​

 

[Saif]

Treatment of the injured: Why the ongoing neglect?

Finally, at midnight, four government advisers arrived at the site, expressed regret over the delay, and promised to resolve the issue by Thursday

en.prothomalo.com

Treatment of the injured: Why the ongoing neglect?
Editorial Desk
Updated: 15 Nov 2024, 15: 28

The interim government formed after the July uprising is about to complete 100 days in office. One of its key priorities was to provide support to the families of those who lost their lives and to help those who were injured.

But, even after all this time, a full list of the dead and injured has still not been made public. This raises serious concerns about the progress of the aid and rehabilitation efforts.

A Prothom Alo report published on 7 September stated that according to the Ministry of Health, more than 18,000 people have received treatment for injuries sustained during the uprising. Another report mention 875 deaths. The anti-discrimination student movement leaders argue that the actual number is much higher.

The July Shaheed Smriti Foundation has been formed to provide medical assistance to the families of those killed and injured in the student uprising. In addition, the Ministry of Health is responsible for offering healthcare.

It was announced that the government would provide free medical services in public hospitals and cover the costs at private hospitals as well. However, despite regular media reports of negligence in treating the injured, no effective action has been taken by the government.

Patients receiving treatment at the National Orthopedic Hospital (better known as Pangu Hospital) staged protests last Wednesday in response to the government's negligence. When they surrounded the health adviser but received no remedy, they left the hospital and took to the streets, blocking traffic in the area.

The injured had called for advisers to reach them by 10 pm, but none arrived at the appointed time. In the meantime, some representatives from the anti-discrimination student movement visited the hospital to try and persuade the injured, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

Finally, at midnight, four government advisers arrived at the site, expressed regret over the delay, and promised to resolve the issue by Thursday.

However, even then, the injured responded with anger. Some had lost their eyesight, while others had lost their hands or feet. To their dismay, the health adviser visited the fifth floor of the hospital but did not meet with the patients on the other floors.

The demand raised by the injured individuals who took to the streets in front of Pangu Hospital, calling for better treatment and rehabilitation, is just. They claimed that despite going to the residence of the chief adviser, they were unable to meet him.

Policymakers in the interim government promised to address the treatment of the wounded. However, many gaps remain in the execution of these promises. The health adviser, who was assigned to oversee the ministry, has been largely invisible in her role.

She had previously been attacked by physicians during a public event. On Wednesday, he had to abandon her car and leave the hospital in another vehicle to escape protests from the injured victims of the July movement.

Many have still not received the promised financial assistance of Tk 100,000 per person. What is the explanation for this neglect?

We hope that the decision made by the four government advisers regarding the treatment of the injured, as agreed in Thursday's meeting, will be implemented without delay.

The government should promptly publish a complete list of those killed and injured in the July uprising and update the public on the condition of the injured. If necessary, they should arrange for treatment abroad.​

 

[Saif]

Khalilur visits injured protesters after taking up new role

He went there after taking up the new position and subsequent formalities on Wednesday

en.prothomalo.com

Khalilur visits injured protesters after taking up new role
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Updated: 20 Nov 2024, 21: 37

Khalilur RahmanCollected

Khalilur Rahman, the high representative of the chief adviser on Rohingya and other priority issues, has visited injured protesters at the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR) in Dhaka.

He went there after taking up the new position and subsequent formalities on Wednesday. Khalilur Rahman, a career diplomat, was appointed to the position on Tuesday.

While talking to Prothom Alo after the visit, he said, “I was not present during the movement. These boys are the face of the movement. It is my moral duty to visit them. The hospital director introduced me to the injured, and I consulted with them, tried to learn about their thoughts.”

Khalilur continued, “They mostly said they are satisfied with the treatment they have been receiving. They also expressed satisfaction with the behaviour of the hospital staff.”

He also noted two concerns that the injured shared with him. According to him, the injured who have been under treatment have no income now as they are unable to do any job. They had to take loans, and the creditors are now forcing them to repay.

Khalilur visits injured protesters after taking up new role Collected

The other concern is that some patients with severe injuries require a long time for recovery. They are now anxious about their future employment options. It is their demand that the government arrange employment for them following their recovery and help them to be rehabilitated.

Rohingya repatriation is the main target

From the hospital, Khalilur Rahman went to the foreign affairs ministry and met with foreign affairs adviser Touhid Hossain. He said it is quite tough to work on the Rohingya issue without collaboration with the foreign ministry. He received assurance from the ministry of full support.

"We have a single target – to ensure the safe and dignified repatriation of Rohingya refugees to their homeland. So, all activities will be done, with the target at the forefront,” he stated.

Highlighting ongoing efforts, he said, “As far as I know, a resolution is being negotiated to hold an international conference on the Rohingya crisis at the UN general assembly. If this resolution is passed, it will create a great opportunity to bring the Rohingya issue to light.”​

 

[Saif]

How are the July-August survivors doing now?

The Daily Star speaks with a few of the injured of the uprising to understand the challenges they are currently facing.

www.thedailystar.net

How are the July-August survivors doing now?

Victims of the uprising taking treatment at a hospital in Dhaka. FILE PHOTO: STAR

More than four months have passed since the student-led mass uprising of July-August, which left around 20,000 people injured. Naznin Tithi of The Daily Star and Kaniz Fatema Mithila of Loraku 24 speak with a few of the injured, their families and volunteers who are helping them, to understand the challenges they are currently facing.

'Don't know when the government will give me money'

On August 5, I was on my way to the hospital to visit a relative. I was in Mohammadpur when a procession passed by, and police started chasing them. I fell off the rickshaw, and the wheel ran over my left leg. My leg has not yet healed. Over the past four months, I've visited several hospitals, but my leg has got infected, and antibiotics have not helped. I have diabetes. My leg swells when I walk; when I lie down, the swelling decreases. I must wear a plastic bandage when I walk and remove it at night. I don't think my leg will ever heal.

I continue to take medicines and go for check-ups occasionally. I had an open heart surgery in the past, so I already take many medications. Now, I also need to take medication for my leg. My relatives and some volunteers have been helping me with my treatment. I've already spent thousands of taka on my treatment, but I haven't received any help from the government yet. I don't know when I will get the financial support.

Masura Begum is a homemaker.

'We may now be seen as the state's burden'

Before the July uprising, I worked as an autorickshaw driver and day labourer in Habiganj to support my family. On August 2, at around 4 pm, I was shot while participating in the protests outside Habiganj Town Hall. Numerous pellets struck my eyes and body. I was first rushed to Sylhet North East Medical College and Hospital, then transferred to the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital (NIOH) in Dhaka on August 3. Doctors informed me that one of my eyes was irreparably damaged, while the other required intensive treatment. I also received treatment for pellet injuries at BSMMU.

Currently, I am under the care of a doctor at Ispahani Islamia Eye Institute and Hospital. I need to travel to Dhaka regularly for check-ups. Due to near-total blindness, I need at least two people to assist me with travel. My wife, a homemaker, helps with my care but struggles with hospital formalities, so I often rely on my nephew or cousin for assistance.

Each trip to Dhaka is costly, with expenses for travel, lodging, and food for three people, in addition to expensive medication. Supporting a family of six—including my wife, two children, and elderly parents—has become increasingly difficult. As the sole breadwinner, my blindness has left me unable to work, worsening our financial struggles. The growing medical costs, travel expenses, and household bills have left me deeply in debt.

I have repeatedly called the government's hotline but received no response. I'm unsure whether my name has been included in the list of those injured during the July uprising. During my last visit to Dhaka in November, I submitted a form at the NIOH, but I have heard nothing since. I don't know if my information reached the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation.

I don't know if I'll ever be able to work again, and even if I do, I can never return to my previous life. Sometimes I feel like a burden to my family, which has led to dark thoughts of ending my life. I've received support from some volunteers, which has given me small moments of hope and strength. I appeal to the government to establish sustainable support systems for people like me, who have lost their eyesight or limbs. It is heartbreaking to think that we, the injured and disabled, may now be seen as a burden on the state.

Md Shahinur Mia used to be an auto-rickshaw driver and day labourer.

'Govt should rehabilitate the injured'

I was shot on August 5 in Uttara. The bullet entered through my throat and exited through my back. I was in the hospital for about 8-10 days. After being discharged, I now need to visit the doctor every month. My main problem is that I can't move normally. If I move my hand too much, it hurts. If I sit for an hour, I get severe aches on my right side. If I stand for one or two hours, my neck swells and hurts severely. The bullet exited through my right side, very close to my windpipe. The doctors told me, "If the bullet had been just one centimetre off, you might not have survived." They aren't sure how long I will suffer like this. They explained that the soft tissues near the bullet's path were damaged, and they are trying to control it with medication, but the treatment is slow.

I've been paying for my own treatment. Recently, the July Foundation sent me Tk 100,000, but I have already spent around Tk 120,000. I work for a medical equipment supply company, but due to my condition, the company hasn't asked me to work full-time. I have a family—my wife, two children, and my parents—and I am the only earning member.

I believe the government should provide free treatment for all those who were injured during the July-August uprising. Many haven't received any financial assistance; it should be provided immediately. The government should also set up a project to rehabilitate the injured. It's been four months since the interim government took charge, but little progress has been made on these issues.

Sharful Alam works at a medical equipment supply company.

'Government must expedite financial assistance'

I used to work at a fabric store. My modest earnings, being the sole income of my family, barely covered our expenses. On August 5, during a police crackdown in Uttara, I was shot and beaten, which fractured my right leg. When I was almost unconscious from tear gas, two strangers helped me to Uttara Adhunik Medical College Hospital (UAMCH) for initial treatment. To avoid distressing my unwell mother, pregnant wife, and diabetic father, I kept my injuries hidden and struggled alone in Dhaka.

As I was unable to walk, I was admitted to UAMCH on August 13 for surgery. I had to use Tk 50,000 from my mother's eye surgery fund and borrow another Tk 100,000. Soon after, the government announced free treatment for injured protesters, but by then, it was too late for me.

Despite the formation of government committees, my attempts to reach officials went in vain. The flood crisis diverted the government's attention, and I turned to the As-Sunnah Foundation, which helped fund my mother's surgery. I spent two months in my village using crutches to move.

When I attempted to submit my case to the upazila nirbahi officer's (UNO) office, I was told I was not eligible as I was not a student. I later discovered that no list of injured individuals was being maintained.

In September, I learnt that other injured protesters had received financial help. I travelled to Dhaka, but my visit resulted in additional expenses—Tk 1,400—and no help. The government hotline was unreachable, and I was redirected to the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation, where submitting forms took over a week. The financial and physical toll of this journey left me exhausted.

I have finally submitted my application, but three weeks have passed, and I have yet to receive any help. With a newborn child, I had to return to work despite my injury. Commuting with a fractured leg is agonising, but I have no choice.

I urgently request the government to expedite the promised financial assistance, reduce the harassment faced by injured individuals, and provide rehabilitation and employment opportunities for those permanently disabled by their injuries.

Md Nur Nabi is a former employee of a fabric store.

'My mother refuses to accept that her son's eye won't heal'

My brother, Md Julfikar Ali, is a candidate for SSC exams in 2025. On July 18, he was shot in front of the BNS Centre in Azampur, Uttara. That day, when Julfikar didn't return home, I searched for him at various protest sites, hospitals, and police stations in Uttara, but couldn't find him. After five days, we received a call from the Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), saying he was in the ICU. His appearance had changed so much that he was unrecognisable.

His right eye got destroyed by a bullet, with seven or eight pellets lodged inside. There are over 100 pellets in his head, neck, and face that doctors say cannot be removed. The bullet also broke two of his teeth. He was hospitalised for nearly three months, first at DMCH and then at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH). Later, he had a prosthetic eye fitted at Ispahani Islamia Eye Hospital. Despite his condition, he continues his studies and daily activities using his good eye.

Doctors from China and France recently examined him and confirmed that taking him abroad wouldn't help, as the pellets cannot be removed. He will have to live with them.

Many people have supported Julfikar's treatment, and the doctors have provided good care. We recently received Tk 100,700 from the July Foundation via bKash. However, my mother refuses to accept that her son's eye won't heal, and the pellets cannot be removed. She keeps saying, "If the government takes him abroad, at least I'll get some consolation. I can't accept my son's condition."

Md Zobayer Hossain is brother of Md Julfikar Ali, candidate of 2025 SSC exams.

'Govt must be guardians of the injured'

Our teams worked across five hospitals. Each team had three to four medical students, two architects, two junior doctors, one coordinator, and two monitors. They assisted patients from morning to evening, providing medicines, meals for patients and attendants, coordinating tests, distributing nutritious food, and offering financial support based on the patients' needs. Even after four months, our volunteers continue their work on the ground because the support is still urgently needed. Many patients are still admitted in hospitals, some have returned home and come for follow-ups periodically, while many others are getting readmitted with new complications. From the very beginning, we have felt that those who were severely injured in the uprising needed both financial support and respectful guardianship.

We have secured long-term guardianship for the injured, with verified needs for daily meals, medicines, house rent, and school fees. Guardians have been assigned responsibility for 43 severely injured individuals requiring long-term recovery, family support, and rehabilitation. To prevent misuse, financial aid is transferred directly to patients' mobile phones every 7-10 days. Each patient is assigned a coordinator and volunteer for coordination. Many of us are trying to support these injured heroes personally, through various means. But when the number of injured is about 20,000, the government should be their guardian and set strategies accordingly. I believe our interim government has no shortage of good intentions. However, there are some challenges.

The main issue was poor coordination. For example, when Zakir Hossain Babu was sent to Bangkok for treatment, his elder sister, who accompanied him, was confused about accommodation, meals, and other needs. After struggling, she contacted us, and we quickly sent 12,000 baht for 15 days' expenses. However, the government had already decided to cover one attendant's costs, leading to a similar issue with another family. Such coordination gaps need to be addressed promptly.

The second issue is the lack of effective monitoring. Although the government set up coordination cells at 14 hospitals in Dhaka, there were complaints that members were unreachable by phone, and many were unaware of their assignments. It's unclear if there is any proper monitoring or accountability mechanism for these cells, but it's evident that there's no public accountability in place. If the government's three ministries—health, social welfare, and labour—collaborate on the long-term treatment and rehabilitation of the injured, the coordination issue can be easily resolved. Those involved in the process over the past few months can work together to ensure smooth coordination.

One of the interim government's primary tasks should be to provide comprehensive support to those injured in the movement, who continue to suffer physical and mental pain, financial hardship, and are struggling to access treatment. The government must urgently step in as the true guardian of these vulnerable individuals.

Farhana Sharmin Emu is an architect and activist of Visionary Voyage, a volunteer network.

'Most survivors are in the anger stage of trauma'

Witnessing the injuries sustained by students during the July protests deeply affected me. As a mental health professional, I wanted to contribute meaningfully to alleviate their suffering.

Our efforts began by targeting university students directly involved in the protests. We organised online support groups, led by 30-35 clinical psychologists from the Bangladesh Clinical Psychology Society. However, we quickly realised the limitations of online group sessions. So, we transitioned to individual counselling sessions, creating a more personalised approach. We also set up a helpline so students could call and schedule appointments at any time. All these services were provided free of charge, underscoring our commitment to supporting the mental well-being of these individuals.

After the protests, our focus shifted to the injured, with information coming through the volunteer organisation Loraku-24. We collaborated with them to extend mental health support to those hospitalised.

Psychologically, trauma is classified into five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Survivors who successfully navigate these stages are adapting to life post-trauma. Most survivors of the July-August events, however, are still stuck in the anger stage, struggling with resentment and sorrow. Many feel they haven't received the attention or support they need from the government. Healing from the anger stage varies, but with psychological support and community care, it can be managed. Unfortunately, in Bangladesh, gaps in medical care and government action have prevented proper healing. Without addressing this stage, survivors cannot reach the acceptance stage. It is crucial that trauma survivors' needs are recognised, especially by the government, who must engage with them patiently and sensitively.

Our fieldwork revealed that those with eye injuries or amputations were the most severely affected psychologically. These individuals, facing the reality of life-altering injuries, often experience profound depression, sleeplessness, and anxiety about their future.

Although the government has pledged to address the psychological needs of the injured, a comprehensive, government-led initiative is needed. This should include mental health units in hospitals for injured protesters, integration of mental healthcare into rehabilitation programmes, and community-based or remote counselling services in urban and rural areas. Telehealth platforms could help reach individuals in remote locations.

Further research is needed to understand the mental health impact on the families of the injured and deceased. The psychological scars borne by protesters and their families are as significant as their physical injuries, if not more so. A unified, comprehensive effort is crucial to ensure that they are not left to navigate this trauma alone.

Farzana Sultana Nila is clinical psychologist at the Center for Mental Health and Care, Bangladesh (CMHC,B).​

 

[Saif]

Govt to issue health cards for those injured in July uprising

The chief adviser will inaugurate the distribution of health cards among the injured at the state guest house Jamuna

www.thedailystar.net

Govt to issue health cards for those injured in July uprising

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will issue health cards for the injured of July Uprising, starting on the first day of the year tomorrow.

The chief adviser will inaugurate the distribution of health cards among the injured at the state guest house Jamuna, according to a press release by the ministry.

The chief adviser has agreed to hold this event at Jamuna tomorrow at 5:30 PM, said the press release signed by Mohammad Shahadat Hossain, senior information officer of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.​

 

[Saif]

BB eases forex rules for July-August victims’ treatment abroad

Bangladesh Bank (BB) on Tuesday made a relaxation of foreign exchange limits for individuals injured during the July-August mass uprising to receive treatment abroad. Previously, individuals seeking medical treatment abroad were limited to taking a maximum of $10,000 or its equivalent in foreign c

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

BB eases forex rules for July-August victims’ treatment abroad
UNB
Published :
Dec 31, 2024 21:00
Updated :
Dec 31, 2024 21:00

Bangladesh Bank (BB) on Tuesday made a relaxation of foreign exchange limits for individuals injured during the July-August mass uprising to receive treatment abroad.

Previously, individuals seeking medical treatment abroad were limited to taking a maximum of $10,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency. However, the BB has now lifted this restriction for those injured during the uprising, which led to a political change in Bangladesh.

Authorized dealers (ADs) of commercial banks are now permitted to release foreign exchange for medical treatment abroad based on individual estimates. Additionally, international card channels can be utilized for these transactions, providing more flexibility for those individuals.

This measure aims to facilitate access to necessary medical care for those who were injured during the recent political upheaval.​

 

[Saif]

Uprising injured block road in front of NITOR

Demand official recognition of their sacrifices, proper treatment, compensation

www.thedailystar.net

Uprising injured block road in front of NITOR
Demand official recognition of their sacrifices, proper treatment, compensation

Photo: Shaheen Mollah/Star

Injured protesters from last year's mass uprising blocked the road in front of the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR) in Dhaka yesterday night, demanding proper medical treatment, rehabilitation, and compensation.

The demonstrators, many still recovering from serious injuries, also called for official recognition of their sacrifices.

At least 50 injured, undergoing treatment at the NITOR and the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital, blocked the Agargaon-Shishu Mela link road in front of NITOR around 9:30pm.

The blockade to both lanes of the road caused severe disruption to traffic, with vehicles being rerouted, leading to heavy congestion in the surrounding areas.

During a visit, this reporter saw some injured chanting slogans while lying on the road. Some were seen joining the protest with crutches, demanding justice and an end to discrimination.

Photo: Shaheen Mollah/Star

The blockade caused severe disruption to traffic, with vehicles being rerouted, leading to heavy congestion in the surrounding areas.

The injured protesters stated that they played a role in bringing down the previous regime but have received no financial assistance.

"We do not want money, we only demand proper treatment and rehabilitation," said Rafiqul Islam, 30, who lost one of his eyes from a police rubber bullet in the capital's Mirpur-10 area on July 19.

He said, "It's been six months, but the government did not keep its promise. If needed, the government should send the victims abroad."

They further expressed frustration with the interim government, claiming it had failed to ensure their medical care.

"We have no faith in this administration or its advisers. That is why we are protesting," said Helal Hasan, a college student from Sirajganj.

He was injured on the back in police firing on August 4.

Golam Azam, officer-in-charge of the Sher-e-Bangla Nagar Police station, told The Daily Star, "The injured of the anti-discrimination movement blocked the road peacefully. We are keeping an eye to maintain the law and order."

The blockade continued till the report was filed around 1:00am.​

 

[Saif]

Injured to go abroad for treatment, foreign specialists to come too

The health ministry has sent 30 persons who were injured in the July uprising, for better treatment overseas. Two of them have returned home after completion of their treatment. The ministry will be sending another 12 overseas soon, for advanced medical treatment.

en.prothomalo.com

Injured to go abroad for treatment, foreign specialists to come too
Shishir Moral
Dhaka
Updated: 01 Feb 2025, 22: 55

A youth wounded in the July mass uprising being taken to hospital. Picture taken at 3:00 in the afternoon on 4 August 2024 at the New Market intersection in Chattogram cityProthom Alo file photo

The health ministry has sent 30 persons who were injured in the July uprising, for better treatment overseas. Two of them have returned home after completion of their treatment. The ministry will be sending another 12 overseas soon, for advanced medical treatment.

Sources in the health ministry say, alongside sending the injured abroad, efforts are also being made to bring in foreign specialists to provide medical treatment to the injured within the country. A 10-member team of physicians arrived in Bangladesh on 27 January from the US. On 4 February, 5 eye specialists are scheduled to arrive from Singapore. Over the past few months several physicians had visited Bangladesh from Thailand, China, the UK and France to treat the injured persons here.

Till 27 January, the ministry has spent around Tk 161.47 million (Tk 16 crore 14 lakh 72 thousand) on overseas treatment. Of this, over Tk 63.70 million (Tk 6 crore 37 lakh) was spent on one person alone. Officials of the ministry say that it will take another few months for that injured person's treatment to be completed at Singapore National Hospital.

Speaking to Prothom Alo, health advisor Nur Jahan Begum said, "We are continuing our efforts to ensure that the injured get the best medical treatment. If the required treatment is not possible in the country, we will certainly send them abroad. And if necessary, we will bring specialists from abroad too."

It has not been possible to determine the exact number of persons injured in the July-August uprising. However, a list of 11,551 persons, whose names and details could be ascertained, has been published on the health directorate's website. The government says this is a draft list. Those on the list will receive necessary treatment free of cost.

The health advisor said, it has not been possible to provide treatment to many of those injured from 15 to 20-21 July, before the fall of the government. Many had been too scared to get admitted to hospital at that time and many had fled from hospital before their treatment was completed. There are also allegations that many were made to leave the hospitals.

Actual treatment was provided only after the government was toppled, from mid-August. But in the meantime, many have already undergone much harm. According to latest reports, there are still around 130 injured persons undergoing treatment at the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR - and better known as Pangu Hospital), BSMMU, the National Institute of Ophthalmology & Hospital and the Combined Military Hospital (CMH).

20 under treatment in Thailand

The health ministry's list indicates that 30 of the injured persons have been sent to four hospitals in Thailand and three in Singapore. Of them, 20 have been sent to Thailand, 10 to Singapore.

Nine of those sent to Singapore received pellet injuries in their eyes. One of them who received a bullet in his head, is suffering from brain haemorrhage. Of those sent to Thailand, some have been injured in the eyes, in the head, some have nerve and spinal injuries. Two have returned after completing treatment in Thailand.

Sajjad Hossain, a student of Pabna Textile Engineering College, was hit in the eye by a shotgun bullet on 4 August. He was first treated at Pabna and then at four hospitals in Dhaka. In the second week of December, the health ministry sent him to Bumrungrad Hospital in Thailand. Sajjad returned home on 26 December after completion of his treatment. Speaking to Prothom Alo on Friday, he told Prothom Alo, "I have not regained sight in my left eye. Had I been sent for treatment earlier, I would have regained 50 to 60 per cent sight."

Seven-year-old Basit Khan Musa was shot in the head on 19 July in front of his home. On 22 October he was sent to Singapore National University Hospital. His father Mustafizur Rahman told Prothom Alo that his condition has improved after a few surgeries. He can now move his arm and leg on one side of his body.

China has committed to providing robotic physiotherapy to those injured during the mass uprising. The equipment for this purpose costs around Tk 120 million to Tk 130 million

Khokan to go to Russia

Khokan Chandra Barman's face is unrecognisable after being hit by a bullet. He has been under treatment at the National Burn Institute for about six months. His cheek and nose had been torn apart.

Khokan will receive treatment at the Moscow State University Clinic in Russia. The ministry officials hope that the physicians there will do all they can to restore Khokan's face to as it was before. They will first replace his cheek and then his nose. After that, various tissues of his face will be fixed. Khokan is to leave for Russia in the first week of February. Treatment will begin in the last week of March.

Advanced physiotherapy

Ministry officials say, China has committed to providing robotic physiotherapy to those injured during the mass uprising. The equipment for this purpose costs around Tk 120 million to Tk 130 million (Tk 12 to 13 crore). This robotic physiotherapy equipment, provided as a gift, will be set up Shaheed Abu Sayeed Convention Building at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). Those injured in the mass uprising will be given priority to avail this service.

The ministry will procure two more robotic physiotherapy machines with their own funds from China. The officials say one will be set up in Chattogram and the other in Rangpur.

Mir Mahbubur Rahman Snigdha, CEO of the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation which was set up to assist the families of the July uprising martyrs and the injured, told Prothom Alo, the injured have been sent overseas on the basis of recommendations of the medical board. The government is bearing the expenses for this. July Shaheed Smriti Foundation is providing assistance with information concerning treatment abroad. Relatives of the injured are also going abroad and are applying for financial assistance in this regard. The foundation is providing financial assistance to such families.​

 

[Saif]

Injured protesters call off demo in front of CA residence

Earlier, they took position in front of the residence of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus around midnight, breaching security barricades along the way

www.thedailystar.net

Injured protesters call off demo in front of CA residence

Photo: Anisur Rahman/Star

Protesters who were injured during last year's mass uprising called off their demonstration early today after receiving assurances that their demands will be met.

Earlier, they took position in front of the residence of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus around midnight, breaching security barricades along the way.

Masud Alam, deputy commissioner (Ramna Division), said the protesters left the spot around 1:45am after Hasnat Abdullah, central coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, gave them assurances.

One of the injured protesters, Monir Hasan, said Hasnat told them that some of the demands will be met this week and the remaining in the coming days.

"Now we are depending on the action of the government and his assurances."

Earlier, witnesses said dozens of protesters first broke through a barricade set up by the police near the Intercontinental Hotel in Shahbagh around midnight. They then tried to breach another barricade set up by the army near the State Guest House Jamuna, the residence of the chief adviser.

Photo: Anisur Rahman/Star

Law enforcers managed the situation non-violently. Siraj Uddin, a police official at Ramna Police Station, confirmed that police from Ramna division and other units have been sent to the spot.

Around 12:30am, Hasnat arrived and tried to calm the protesters.

Protesters vowed not to back down without written government assurance that their demands -- proper treatment, rehabilitation, and state recognition -- would be met. They also demanded that a representative of the chief adviser meet them.

Protesters gather in front Intercontinental Hotel in the capital last night. Photo: Prabir Das/Star

Earlier in the day, they blocked the Shishu Mela intersection in Shaymoli, issuing a 4:00pm ultimatum for a written commitment from the government. The blockade continued throughout the day.

By evening, protesters marched toward the chief adviser's residence but were stopped near the Intercontinental Hotel at 7:30pm, where they staged a sit-in.​