Syndicates have long been a prevalent issue in Bangladesh. However, can the extreme greed of these syndicates lead a family towards a tragic and heart-wrenching fate? A recent incident in our country sheds light on this question.
In this case, a newborn baby, a symbol of joy and hope for the family’s future, tragically lost its life due to the actions of the ambulance syndicate in Shariatpur. The baby was born with severe breathing complications at a local clinic, prompting the family to urgently seek medical help in Dhaka. Desperate, they hired an ambulance for the journey.
During the trip, the ambulance was stopped by a member of the Shariatpur ambulance syndicate. Despite the family’s pleas and arguments, the ambulance was detained, leading to a delay that proved fatal for the newborn. This incident raises the critical question: Do monetary gains hold more value than human life? As responsible citizens, how can we allow such tragedies to occur due to the abuse of power?
The father of the deceased child, who had worked for 18 years as an electric line repairman in Dhaka’s Mirpur, chose not to pursue legal action due to financial constraints and emotional distress. The loss of the child, represented by carefully prepared baby clothes that will now go unworn, has left a profound impact on the family. One individual, Sabuj Dewan, has been arrested by the Rapid Action Battalion in connection with this tragic event.
While forming associations to safeguard interests is legitimate, when these groups resort to extortion and exploit vulnerable individuals, immediate action must be taken to dismantle such practices. Ambulance syndicates in various regions, including Dhaka, Chattogram, and district towns, often prey on patients in urgent need, charging exorbitant fees and restricting access to alternative transport options.
The healthcare system in Bangladesh is already plagued by corruption and mismanagement, and the exploitation by ambulance syndicates further exacerbates the situation. Patients and their families have long been subjected to this ruthless extortion, with profits prioritized over lives. Efforts to reform the system are often met with resistance, leading to disruptions and increased suffering for ordinary citizens.
To address these challenges and prioritize the sanctity of life, decisive measures must be implemented. The government should establish clear and transparent ambulance fare regulations based on distance, with strict enforcement mechanisms in place. Violators should face severe penalties, including permanent license revocation for transport operators engaged in exploitation.
Furthermore, the introduction of a national hotline for reporting abuse in real-time and the expansion of affordable ambulance services are essential steps to safeguard public welfare. Independent monitoring of hospitals to prevent syndicate influence and ensure timely and fair access to medical services is crucial for preventing future tragedies. Unless these systemic issues are addressed promptly, more lives will be needlessly lost to greed and exploitation.
The eradication of syndicates surrounding ambulance services is not just a matter of convenience but a fundamental aspect of preserving human life and dignity. Every moment of delay, every unjust fare, and every denial of service is a matter of life and death for those in need. It is imperative that immediate action is taken to dismantle these exploitative practices and protect the well-being of all citizens in their most vulnerable moments.