Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum has reported that over 1,000 people lost their lives during the recent student protests. Additionally, the protests have resulted in more than 400 cases of blindness, with many individuals losing sight in one or both eyes.
Begum shared this information during a visit to the Central Police Hospital in Rajarbagh on Wednesday. The following day, the ministry confirmed her report in a press release.
“We are coordinating with the Seva Foundation in America,” Begum stated. “We’ve provided them with lists of those affected by eye injuries. The foundation has promised to send doctors as soon as possible for treatment. Patients will receive care at the Isphahani Islamia Eye Institute, the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital, as well as at Chittagong Eye Hospital and Dinajpur.”
During her visit, Begum also interacted with injured police officers in the surgery department, assessed their conditions, and discussed medical services with hospital staff and doctors.
In response to media inquiries, she noted that many injured police officers are receiving treatment for leg and head injuries, and there is also an injured student coordinator under care.
“The government has committed to supporting the families of those who have died and providing free treatment for the injured,” she added. “Some have suffered severe leg injuries, with some needing amputations. We are working with various donor organizations and the World Bank to bring in a team of international doctors for their care. We are making every effort to address this situation.”
