Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain expressed strong outrage over the deaths of 33 newborns in 11 days at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH), reportedly caused by a shortage of neonatal intensive care facilities.
Speaking as the chief guest at a "CME on Medical Ethics" event organized by the Society of Surgeons at Abu Sayeed International Convention Centre in Shahbag, he criticized the hospital director for failing to inform the ministry about the lack of NICU beds.
"Thirty-three babies died in 11 days in Rajshahi, yet the hospital director did not inform us that there was no ICU for newborns. Such negligence is unacceptable," the minister said. He added that when initially contacted, the director dismissed media reports as exaggerated. However, upon further inquiry, the ministry confirmed the accuracy of the reports.
Sakhawat Hossain emphasized the need for timely supply of necessary equipment and administrative accountability to prevent such tragedies in the future. He urged doctors to cooperate closely with the ministry, saying, "You are a highly respected community. Without your cooperation, it is difficult for this ministry to serve the people. Please convey this message to your colleagues at the grassroots level."
Meanwhile, State Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr M A Muhith issued a stern warning against "factories" producing fake doctors, including unauthorized clinics and unqualified nurses. In a video message from his office at the Secretariat on Saturday, he revealed that several private medical colleges operate in violation of rules.
"I am seeing files of some medical colleges that have no regard for rules and regulations," he said. "Despite repeated warnings, they continue to operate as commercial enterprises rather than educational institutions." Muhith noted that many colleges lack proper land, documentation, hospitals, and patients.
"How can students become qualified doctors under such conditions? Parents spend their life savings only to be deceived," he said, stressing that public safety is at serious risk.
The state minister declared that all private medical colleges must meet minimum standards, including qualified staff, proper hospitals, and adequate patient flow. Institutions failing to comply will be shut down. He called on the public to support the initiative, saying, "This fight will continue in the public interest. With your support, we will ensure better healthcare for all."
