CA Assures Support for Injured Fighters and Families

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus

"Injured fighters will receive the necessary medical care, and the government will ensure their financial security," Dr. Yunus stated during the inauguration of a health card distribution program at the State Guest House Jamuna on Wednesday evening.

The health cards, he explained, would allow holders to receive treatment at any government hospital nationwide, ensuring access to medical care at any time, whether immediately or years down the line. “This health card guarantees lifelong healthcare benefits,” Dr. Yunus added.

Alongside physical recovery, Dr. Yunus stressed the importance of addressing the mental and social rehabilitation of fighters injured during the July uprising. “We must prioritize this aspect to ensure these individuals can lead fulfilling lives and integrate back into society,” he said, calling for concrete initiatives to support their emotional well-being.

He also pointed out the necessity of paving a clear path for those willing to work toward their rehabilitation with joy and purpose. "In addition to physical healing, we must also focus on nurturing their mental health," Dr. Yunus affirmed.

The ceremony was attended by Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser for the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Prof. Dr. Md. Sayedur Rahman, Information Adviser Nahid Islam, Health Secretary Md. Sayedur Rahman, and Chief Executive of the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation Mir Mahbubur Rahman Snigdha, among others.

Dr. Yunus personally handed over health cards to two injured students: Ifat Hossain, a student from Narsingdi United College, and Israt Jahan Imu, a student from the Disaster Management Department of Dhaka University. Ifat tragically lost sight in both eyes after being shot by police during the July 19 protests, and while one eye remains irreparably damaged, she continues her recovery. Israt, severely injured in the July 15 attack by the banned Chhatra League on female students, is undergoing treatment at BSMMU.

Dr. Yunus spoke with both students, inquiring about their medical needs and overall well-being.

The Ministry of Health confirmed that health cards would be distributed weekly to the fighters injured during the July uprising, starting with specific districts.

Prof. Khair Ahmed Chowdhury, Director of the National Institute of Ophthalmology, provided an update on the medical efforts, sharing that 1,074 individuals have received treatment at the institute. Tragically, 39 have lost both eyes permanently, while approximately 450 have suffered damage to one eye. Over 650 surgeries have been performed, including more than 300 retina surgeries in the second phase. Some patients are scheduled for additional operations in the third phase.

International medical teams from China, France, Nepal, and the United States have visited the institute, and they have expressed satisfaction with the quality of care being provided. Notably, 65 patients have regained their sight as a result of the treatments.

Dr. Md. Abul Kenan, Director of the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), also briefed Dr. Yunus on the progress at his hospital. He reported that 21 patients have required amputations, but emphasized that most patients are recovering steadily, and none face immediate life-threatening risks. Some patients have been selected for treatment abroad, ensuring that their recovery continues to progress.

Dr. Yunus concluded the event by reaffirming the government's commitment to the long-term welfare of these injured fighters and their families. "We will ensure they have the support they need to heal and thrive," he said.