Kolkata, April 25: A post on social media has sparked outrage after it alleged that a seven-month pregnant woman in Kolkata was allegedly refused medical care by her gynaecologist solely because she is a Muslim.
The alleged incident took place just two days after the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 people dead.
Speaking to reporters, the woman’s sister-in-law, Mefuza Khatun, shared that the incident took place on the afternoon of April 24.
According to her, the expectant mother had gone to the doctor’s private clinic at his residence, where he also sees patients apart from his regular practice at Kasturi Das Memorial Super Specialty Hospital.
Dr. C. K. Sarkar, affiliated with Kasturi Das Memorial Super Specialty Hospital, is accused of refusing care to the woman, reportedly saying, “After what happened in Kashmir, I won’t treat Muslim patients anymore.”
The refusal comes in the wake of a deadly assault in Pahalgam, Anantnag, where 26 were killed, including 25 tourists.
Incidents of targeted attacks against Muslims after the Pahalgam terror attack have been reported across the country.
The woman’s family has spoken out, sharing that Dr. Sarkar, who had been treating her for the past seven months, made inflammatory comments such as, “Let Hindus kill your husband, then you’ll understand the pain. All Muslims should be banned.”
Advocate Mehfuza Khatun, a relative of the patient, expressed shock and heartbreak on social media. “This is a horrifying instance of prejudice,” she wrote in a Facebook post, highlighting the emotional toll on her sister-in-law, who has been in tears and gripped with fear for her and her unborn child’s well-being.
“To refuse care to someone so vulnerable is not only inhumane but a direct violation of both medical ethics and basic human rights,” Khatun added.
She emphasized that access to healthcare must not be influenced by religion and urged authorities, hospital officials, and rights groups to take urgent action.
Renowned activist Mona Ambegaonkar also weighed in, urging the public to boycott Dr. Sarkar, labeling the act “criminal and dangerous.
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