Kolkata Cardiologist’s Discount Offer Linked to ‘Jai Shri Ram’ Poster Draws Mixed Reactions
Kolkata— A Kolkata-based cardiologist has sparked debate after announcing a ₹500 discount on consultation fees for patients who present a poster bearing the phrase “Jai Shri Ram.”
P. K. Hazra, who serves as Director of Interventional Cardiology at Manipal Hospital, said the offer is valid only at his private clinic in Ballygunge and does not apply to corporate hospital settings.
Dr. Hazra described the initiative as an extension of his ongoing efforts to support patients, noting that he has previously treated many free of cost. “I had been treating patients for free for many days, and I wanted to contribute to society in my own way. This is my platform — the medical field,” he said.
He added that patients showing a designated poster with a QR code and the slogan would qualify for the discount. His consultation fee, he noted, had already been reduced earlier this year.
Dr. Hazra also expressed his political views, stating he is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party. “’Jai Shri Ram’ is not a religious slogan. It is a political slogan,” he said, while emphasizing that the scheme is open to all patients regardless of religion or income.
The move has prompted mixed reactions, with some seeing it as a novel outreach effort and others raising concerns about the blending of healthcare services with political messaging.
Dr. Hazra said he is considering entering politics in the future and may seek to work more closely with the BJP. (Source: IANS)
