BNP Standing Committee member Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain. File Photo

DHAKA, Oct 1, 2025 (BSS) - BNP Standing Committee member Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain today said senior citizens of the country are facing obstacles in accessing the healthcare services in hospitals. 

“Elderly people suffering from serious or complex diseases are facing various obstacles in getting services in hospitals in the capital. Their suffering is crossing all limits due to the long queues, waiting times and inadequate facilities at multiple hospitals in Dhaka. Such crisis is very acute in large hospitals in Dhaka," he said. 

Dr. Zahid made the remarks as the chief guest while speaking at a discussion, organised by Azhar-Shafiq Foundation, at the National Press Club. 

He highlighted the necessity of arranging separate facilities and amenities for the senior citizens. 

He said, “If our state can today provide old-age allowances, widow allowances and stipends for heroic freedom fighters, then sincere initiatives are needed to create a separate window and separate facilities for the senior citizens ... mobilizing huge financial resources for it is not required.”

Laying emphasis on taking special steps in the budget for the sustainable development of society, the BNP leader said, “Seniors are not a burden on society, it is the state's responsibility to ensure so that they can live with dignity."

President of the Azhar-Shafiq Foundation AKM Shamsul Islam Ronju presided over the event while Acting President of Gono Forum Subrata Chowdhury, and General Secretary Mizanur Rahman, as well as several retired government and non-government officials, were present.