Specialised rehabilitation centre proposed to aid injured July-August protesters 

Prof Dr MA Shakur, president of the long-term treatment cell for injured protesters from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, has proposed the establishment of a dedicated rehabilitation centre to speed up the recovery process for those injured during the movement.

The proposal for the “Super Specialised Rehabilitation Center for the July 24 Warriors” was presented today at a scientific seminar organised by the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU).

The seminar was held in observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, with the theme “Empowering Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”

Prof Shakur, who is also the chairman of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, highlighted the capabilities of BSMMU in offering comprehensive medical services, ensuring that patients no longer need to travel abroad for advanced treatments.

“We are capable of providing all necessary treatments here,” he said.

As of now, a total of 297 individuals injured in the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have received treatment at BSMMU. Currently, 58 are being treated in the emergency department, 53 in cabins, 152 in the outpatient department of the Super Specialised Hospital, 24 in the inpatient department, and 10 in the ICU.

During the seminar, Yasin Arafat, an injured participant in the anti-discrimination movement, shared his recovery story. Severely injured in the back during the student protests in August, Yasin was initially unable to move and had to be brought to BSMMU in a wheelchair. He never imagined standing again, let alone walking.

However, after receiving treatment under the guidance of Prof Shakur, he has made a remarkable recovery and is now able to walk.