BNP condemns arrest of doctor over rickshaw puller’s death in July

The BNP has condemned the arrest of five individuals, including a doctor from Delta Health Care, over alleged medical negligence in treating rickshaw puller Ismail who was shot dead during the July uprising. 

In a statement issued today (19 January), BNP's Health Affairs Secretary Dr Md Rafiqul Islam demanded the immediate release of the doctor, withdrawal of "false charges", and punishment for those responsible for the situation.

Citing media reports showing Ismail's head severely injured due to alleged police brutality, the statement said despite the doctor's best efforts to treat Ismail under life-threatening conditions, he now faces murder charges. 

"Police officers shot Ismail and prevented him from receiving medical care. Now they arrested the doctor, yet no action has been taken against the police involved in the incident," reads the statement.

The statement criticised the government for targeting doctors without proper investigation, describing it as a reflection of past fascist governance. 

Acknowledging that the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC) is the appropriate body to address medical malpractice allegations, the party questioned whether this harassment is part of a larger conspiracy.

The incident gained attention after a viral social media post showed a rickshaw puller lying on the hospital stairs during the mass uprising, allegedly denied entry and treatment. 

Police have arrested five people, including the doctor and hospital staff of Delta Health Care Hospital in Rampura, on charges of negligence. 

They were sent to court yesterday.