Dhaka: Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain today addressed parliament, revealing that the health sector suffered from looting during the previous fascist regime. "There is no fund for developmental work in the health sector. There is not enough money to buy gauzes, bandages, and syringes in the Upazila Health Complex," he stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the issue was raised during a parliamentary session when ruling party MP from Gaibandha-4 constituency, Mohammad Shamim Kaiser, used Rule 71 to draw attention to the need for upgrading Gobindaganj Upazila Hospital in Gaibandha district to 100 beds. In response, the Health Minister highlighted the mismanagement and alleged looting that took place under the previous government.
The Health Minister criticized the construction plans for ongoing hospital projects, pointing out flawed designs that included poorly placed bathrooms at the entrances of 250-bed hospitals, which would deter entry due to odor issues. He described the construction as rushed and poorly planned, aimed at profiteering.
He further lamented the lack of funds for developmental work, explaining that resources for basic medical supplies in Upazila Health Complexes are depleted. "Everything has been exhausted. Even what was there during the previous government has been exhausted. I have discussed this situation of the country with the Prime Minister two or three times," he added.
Looking ahead, the Health Minister assured that after the next budget, the government plans to take necessary actions to provide health services to the people in all upazilas, albeit from limited resources, in a phased manner.