Patuakhali Hospital Food Quality Sparks Controversy Following Viral Video Involving BNP Leader
Photo Collected
Controversy has erupted at Patuakhali 250-Bed Hospital following allegations of unsanitary food preparation and the presence of cockroaches in patient meals. The situation intensified after a video surfaced online showing Mujibur Rahman, general secretary of the district branch of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), inspecting the food by holding it to his nose with a spoon.
The incident occurred last Saturday during lunch service. In the widely circulated video, Rahman is seen lifting portions of the prepared meal to verify claims made by patients regarding a pungent, pest-related odor. The footage sparked a flurry of social media criticism, with users questioning his authority to intervene in hospital operations and casting doubt on the hygienic implications of his actions.
Rajib Ahamad, who shared the video on Facebook, questioned the necessity of a political leader—who holds no official public office—inspecting the quality of hospital provisions. Critics expressed concerns over potential contamination, noting that the same utensils used for inspection might have come into contact with the food served to patients.
Defending his actions, Rahman stated that he was visiting the hospital to see the father of a local Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal leader when several patients approached him with complaints. He asserted that he did not consume the food, but merely investigated the odor after being alerted to the presence of cockroaches. He dismissed the controversy as a politically motivated attempt to tarnish his reputation.
Hospital staff have provided conflicting accounts regarding the event. Hospital cook Mojibor Mia initially claimed that Rahman had sampled the food and praised its quality, but later retracted his statement, insisting that the politician had not put the spoon in his mouth.
Patients at the facility have long reported a pervasive cockroach infestation affecting various wards and beds, a problem that has caused significant distress to those seeking treatment. Hospital Superintendent Dilruba Yasmin has previously acknowledged the pest problem and indicated that efforts are underway to address the infestation.
District Administrator Mohammad Shahid Hossain Chowdhury addressed the incident, emphasizing that hospital authorities must ensure the highest standards of food safety for patients. He stated that he intends to discuss the matter with hospital management to investigate the hygiene complaints and prevent further occurrences.
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