Yunus distributes health cards among July Uprising fighters
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus inaugurated the health card distribution programme by the Ministry of Health to ensure free medical services for those injured in the July Uprising.
The programme was launched at state guesthouse Jamuna on Tuesday evening (January 1).
During the event, Professor Yunus handed over health cards to two injured students: Ifat Hossain, a student of Narsingdi United College, and Israt Jahan Emu, a student of the Disaster Management Department at Dhaka University, according to the Chief Adviser's Press Wing.
Ifat lost vision in both eyes due to police firing during the July 19 movement in Narsingdi last year. While treatment has restored partial vision in one eye, he remains blind in the other. Israt was seriously injured in Chhatra League’s attack on female students in the Dhaka University area on July 15 and is currently receiving treatment at BSMMU. Professor Yunus spoke with both students, inquiring about their treatment and overall well-being.
The Health Ministry announced that health cards will be distributed weekly in designated districts to all fighters injured in the uprising.
National Institute of Ophthalmology Director Professor Khair Ahmed Chowdhury updated the Principal Adviser on treatment efforts for eye injuries sustained during the uprising.
A total of 1,074 people have received treatment, with 39 patients losing both eyes permanently and 450 suffering damage to one eye.
Approximately 650 surgeries have been performed, including over 300 retina surgeries in the second phase, with additional operations planned.
International doctors from China, France, Nepal, and the United States have expressed satisfaction with the quality of care provided.
65 patients have regained eyesight through treatment.
National Orthopaedic Hospital and Rehabilitation Institute (NITOR) Director Dr. Muhammad Abul Kenan reported that:
21 patients have undergone limb amputations.
Some patients have been selected for treatment abroad.
Most injured individuals are expected to recover fully, with none currently at risk of death.
State Commitment to Long-term Support
Professor Yunus emphasised the government’s commitment to supporting the injured and the families of martyrs, saying: "The state has a responsibility to ensure medical care for the wounded warriors of the July Uprising. This health card ensures access to treatment at any government hospital, even years from now."
He also highlighted the need for holistic rehabilitation, including mental health and social reintegration, stating:
"Physical recovery through treatment is vital, but so is mental and social well-being. We must take steps to ensure they can rebuild their lives with dignity and happiness."
Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser Professor Dr Md Sayedur Rahman, Information Adviser Nahid Islam, Health Secretary Md Sayedur Rahman, Chief Executive of the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation, Mir Mahbubur Rahman Snigdha, its secretary Sarjis Alam were also present at the event.
