In the midst of the escalating tensions between Bangladesh and India -- one that does both nations no favours -- it is heartening to see certain Indian hospitals have extended a warm welcome to Bangladeshi nationals seeking medical treatment, with Behala Balananda Brahmachari Hospital and Research Centre in Kolkata announcing a 10% discount on medical services for Bangladeshi patients.
With talks previously about boycotting Bangladeshi patients and denying them services, we in particular appreciate the establishment questioning such actions. That there could even be discussion for doctors and medical establishments, who have all taken the Hippocratic Oath, to deny patients in need treatment speaks of the damage done by the misinformation and disinformation spread by certain quarters of the Indian media.
While it is good to see that not all of India has fallen prey to the disinformation and misinformation that is being peddled about the state of Bangladesh, we hope that more people in India follow the example set by Behala Balananda Brahmachari Hospital and Research Centre and not those that are adding fuel to the fire by spreading lies and propaganda. Those in Bangladesh too must not be reactionary to the events that have occurred in India, and continue to do the right thing and take the high road.
India and Bangladesh have been the closest allies for far too long, and it is in the interest of both nations to put an end to the current friction. The entire South Asian region benefits from more understanding and better relationships, and to identify and put an end to the sources of disinformation that perpetuate tensions and misunderstandings.
