Dhaka, August 15 (V7N) – The family of 35-year-old Dhaka Power Distribution Company Limited (DPDCL) officer Helal Uddin has accused Assistant Professor and Consultant Dr. K.M. Atikul Islam of Islami Bank Central Hospital, Kakrail, of medical negligence and fraud leading to his untimely death.

At a Thursday press conference held at the National Press Club, Helal’s sister Umm-e Shabereen Smriti, his wife Samena Akter, and other family members alleged that Dr. Atikul, motivated by financial gain, pressured Helal into undergoing an unnecessary and high-risk surgery. The family claims that this surgical operation led directly to Helal’s demise.

Helal’s MRI scan reportedly detected a small pituitary gland tumor. On July 12, Dr. Atikul informed the family that the tumor could be removed via a minor, low-risk endoscopic nasal surgery and warned that delaying the procedure could result in Helal losing his vision. A total package price of Tk 260,000 was demanded.

Although Helal was admitted on July 14, the hospital did not honor the package agreement, reportedly charging extra surgeon’s fees and hospital costs. Despite Helal's high blood pressure on the day of admission, surgery was performed the following day.

Post-surgery, the consultant labeled the procedure a “major” operation and claimed to have removed two tumors—claims that contradicted earlier reports. The doctor immediately demanded payment but apparently neglected to send a tumor sample for biopsy.

Helal’s health then deteriorated rapidly. The family alleges that in the post-operative ward, he was tended by underqualified staff without proper supervision. On the night of July 17, a head drain was inserted without anesthesia. The next morning, when Helal developed breathing difficulties, his transfer to the ICU was delayed. He was finally admitted at 11:54 AM but died shortly thereafter.

Shockingly, the family claims, the hospital refused to release the body until an outstanding bill of Tk 165,000 was settled. Only after negotiating the bill down to Tk 130,650 was the body handed over.

Helal’s wife, Samena Akter, demanded accountability, stating, “Where will I go with two children? We want answers: Why was the treatment wrong, why did the doctor commit fraud? We demand the maximum punishment for the doctor.”

Smriti added, “How many more lives must be lost this way? Only exemplary punishment will deter such tragedies. This fight is not just for Helal—it’s for safe healthcare for all.”

The family alleges that Dr. Atikul intentionally withheld referral to a higher-quality hospital or specialist care, performing a harmful operation for personal gain. They are demanding revocation of his medical license and legal action.