Bagerhat, Aug 24 (V7N) – A case of administrative negligence at the Morrelganj Upazila Health Complex in Bagerhat has raised public concern after the national flag was not hoisted until well past midday on Saturday. According to eyewitnesses and local sources, the flag remained unraised on the hospital’s main building flagpole until after 1:00 PM, despite regular office activities taking place.
 
Upon being informed of the matter, Dr. Ahad Nazmul Hasan, the on-duty medical officer, responded that hoisting the national flag was not part of his responsibilities. “My job is to attend to patients,” he reportedly said, referring the matter to the head clerk or suggesting that others could raise it themselves.
 
The situation prompted further action only after it was escalated to higher authorities. A hospital cleaner was then directed to raise the flag around 1:15 PM in what appeared to be a rushed and perfunctory attempt to rectify the issue.
 
During a visit to the hospital premises, it was observed that the facility was operational, with patients being treated by three doctors. However, key administrative figures were absent: the Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer, Dr. Mujahidul Islam, was on leave due to a family medical emergency, and the Resident Medical Officer, Dr. Nadiruzzaman Akash, was attending a training program.
 
This apparent lack of supervision and accountability has sparked frustration among the local community. Several residents expressed concern about the overall state of discipline at the hospital, suggesting that long-term postings and a lack of oversight have created an environment where no one feels responsible.
 
One local resident questioned, “If the officials are not present at their stations, who takes responsibility? Why is there reluctance to raise the national flag—a basic duty in any government institution?”
 
In response to the incident, Morrelganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Habibullah stated that according to government protocol, the national flag must be hoisted at all public offices from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on working days.
 
Contacted for comment, Dr. Mujahidul Islam confirmed he was on leave due to his son's illness but acknowledged that the failure to hoist the flag was unacceptable. He added that the matter would be investigated and appropriate steps taken to ensure accountability.
 
The incident has prompted broader questions about administrative discipline and accountability in public healthcare institutions, particularly in rural areas.
 
END/MPS/SMA/