Khulna Activists Demand Investigation Reports Into Hospital Fires Amid Safety Concerns

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The Gonatantrik Odhikar Surokkha Mancho, a local rights group in Khulna, has demanded the immediate public release of comprehensive investigation reports into recent fire incidents at Khulna Medical College Hospital and Khulna City Medical College Hospital. The organization, led by former Income Tax Lawyers Association president Khan Moniruzzaman, staged a demonstration in front of the Khulna Collectorate building on Sunday to protest the lack of accountability regarding fire safety and patient care standards.

Speakers at the protest highlighted the severe consequences of the May 20 blaze at Khulna Medical College Hospital, which forced the closure of the facility’s operating theater and disrupted surgical procedures for over 100 patients. Concerns were also raised regarding casualties during the emergency evacuation, with activists alleging that the official inquiry committee failed to disclose the full details of its findings. Similar criticism was directed at the authorities for the lack of transparency surrounding a subsequent fire at Khulna City Medical College Hospital on June 11.

Beyond fire safety, the organization called for disciplinary action against vendors providing substandard food to patients at the Khulna General Hospital. Despite recent oversight by the Minister of Health, protesters argued that the quality of sustenance remains poor and that no effective measures have been implemented to address the issue.

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The demonstration underscored broader safety concerns across the city. According to a survey conducted by the Fire Service and Civil Defense, several critical facilities—including Khulna Medical College Hospital, Khulna City Medical College Hospital, Ad-din Hospital, and the Bangladesh Bank building—have been flagged as high-risk sites for fire hazards. Protesters criticized relevant authorities for failing to address these identified vulnerabilities despite the clear risks posed to patients and staff. Following the demonstration, the group submitted a memorandum to the Minister of Health through the office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner.