Joy Radhe Seva Samiti Urges Hospitals in Assam to Deny Services to Bangladeshis

Joy Radhe Seva Samiti, a socio-cultural organisation based in Cachar, has issued an appeal to private hospitals, medical clinics, and doctors across Assam, requesting them to restrict medical services to Bangladeshi nationals involved in anti-India activities and the persecution of minorities (Hindus) in Bangladesh.

In a letter dated December 7, 2024, addressed to all the private nursing homes and hospitals, the organisation expressed concern over the treatment of the Hindu community in Bangladesh, citing instances of temple desecration, attacks on Hindu priests, and violence against the minority Hindu population. The group also mentioned incidents of disrespect towards the Indian flag by certain Bangladeshi nationals, describing these acts as a grave insult to India and its values.

The letter calls on the medical fraternity to take a principled stand by denying services to individuals they accuse of complicity in such acts. “While we deeply respect the humanitarian responsibilities of medical professionals, we believe that such a measure is necessary to send a strong message against the inhumane treatment of minorities and acts of disrespect toward our nation,” the letter states.

However, the appeal clarified that the request does not target oppressed minority communities in Bangladesh but is directed against those allegedly involved in or indifferent to such injustices.

The letter has sparked discussions about the ethical obligations of medical professionals and the balance between humanitarian duties and national concerns. The organisation concluded by urging institutions to reflect on their stance and take action to uphold “justice, humanity, and national pride.”

This move is likely to provoke a mixed response, with some supporting the organisation’s stance, while others question the implications of such requests on medical ethics and cross-border relations.

Joydeep Chakraborty, the President of the organisation claimed that nearly 5 to 10 thousand Bangladeshis come to Silcha for treatment every month. He also stated, “Most of them who come from Bangladesh are rich people, as the poor can’t afford foreign travel for treatment. All of them go to private hospitals. That is why our urge is towards private nursing homes and hospitals”.

In a press meet held on Saturday evening, the organisation made these statements. Gaurav Chanda, Subir Dhar, Gautam Roy, Mousumi Adhikari, Mrinaka Saha and Debolina Paul were present other than Chakraborty.