The government is reconsidering its decision to revoke the licence of Ad-Din Medical College Hospital in Moghbazar following an appeal by the hospital authorities, weeks after six newborns died at the facility amid allegations of oxygen shortages and gross negligence.
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) cancelled the hospital’s licence after the deaths, while a government probe committee found evidence of negligence by the hospital administration. Since then, healthcare services at the facility have remained suspended.
Sources at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said the hospital has formally appealed against the licence revocation, prompting authorities to reassess the decision. The government is reportedly considering allowing the institution several months to rectify deficiencies identified during the investigation.
A senior health ministry official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Dhaka Tribune that the ministry could review the matter if there were grounds for reconsideration, although he was not aware of any recent developments.
According to sources, the government views the recent restructuring of the hospital’s board of directors as a positive step. Authorities may consider restoring the licence if the hospital demonstrates a credible commitment to implementing corrective measures. Full compensation for the affected families and disciplinary action against those found responsible are also expected to be key conditions for any reversal of the decision.
Officials said the hospital could be given between three and five months to address the shortcomings and meet regulatory requirements.
The deaths of the six newborns triggered widespread public criticism and renewed scrutiny of the hospital’s management. Many healthcare stakeholders and observers argued against shutting down the institution. Opposition political parties also repeatedly raised concerns over the issue.
Addressing Parliament on Sunday, Health Minister said the move was intended to ensure accountability and improve standards in healthcare delivery rather than permanently close the hospital.
“Many people have pointed out that dialysis services are available there for Tk 200 to Tk 250, which is true,” the minister said. “But just as a headache cannot be treated by cutting off the head, those responsible for wrongdoing must be held accountable. Our objective was to suspend the licence, not to shut down the hospital.”
However, the DGHS maintains that the hospital’s licence was revoked and that the government will make the final decision regarding the appeal.
Tariqul Islam Mukul, director (Company Affairs) of Ad-Din Foundation, said: "We corrected the deficiencies identified by the Directorate General of Health Services and the ministry and submitted an application to the secretary. We are now waiting for a decision."
Meanwhile, the licence revocation has created uncertainty for hundreds of foreign students enrolled at the medical college. Although academic activities continue, the suspension of hospital services has disrupted clinical training and internship programmes.
The situation is particularly concerning for 295 students from India and the Maldives. Under Indian medical regulations, graduates are generally required to complete their internship at the hospital affiliated with the institution from which they earn their degree.
Students fear that being transferred to another hospital for internship training could affect the recognition of their qualifications and jeopardise their future careers. They have submitted memorandums to the Health Ministry and the DGHS, seeking an urgent resolution to the issue.