Dhaka:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has expressed concern for nurse Ripa Francisco Gomez, who sustained injuries during the July 2024 uprising while administering first aid to the wounded.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister learned about Ripa's condition through a social media post and instructed his Additional Press Secretary, Atikur Rahman Rumon, to investigate her health status. Following these instructions, a delegation led by Krishibid Moksedul Momin Mithun, member-secretary of 'Amra BNP Paribar,' visited Ripa's home in the Bazar Goli area of Madhya Badda, Dhaka, to check on her and convey the Prime Minister's sympathy.
The delegation included members of 'Amra BNP Paribar' such as Masud Rana Liton, Farhad Ali Sajib, and Rubel Amin, as well as Chhatra Dal leader Abdullah Al Misbah. Ripa was shot on July 21, 2024, near Rampura Bridge in Dhaka during the mass uprising. She suffered serious injuries, including 47 lead pellets and two rubber bullets, with one bullet embedded 14 centimeters inside her brain, severely injuring her right eye socket.
Ripa continues to experience vision problems and other health issues due to her injuries. The financial burden of ongoing medical treatment, combined with limited work opportunities, has put her in a difficult economic situation. Despite these challenges, Ripa remains dedicated to her nursing duties, striving to support herself and cover her medical expenses.