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ER Diaries: Refugees in ER

Hey all


I found myself in this situation the other day. I didn’t know what I was doing was right. Didn’t know if there was a RIGHTER alternative! I wish there was one.

The other day early in the morning shift a couple with 2year old kid was accompanied by a lady constable. The moment they realised the doctor (I) was Muslim, they surrounded me!

The man pleaded that I declare his wife unfit for court proceedings so that she is not prosecuted. He doesn’t mind even if he had to stay in jail for 7 years. I didn’t know what was wrong. 

So the issue was Those were Rohingya Muslims .They created a duplicate Aadhar Card to gain xyz benefits. Since they are not nationals but refugees , this turned out to be illegal. So they were arrested.

They were got here for fitness certificate. I went to my senior for help. He said me to be truthful to my job and write what I found on examination and nothing else. Writing false information would invite unwanted trouble.

I examined. Everything was fine. The lady was in tears. Begging me to help her as her 2 year old would be separated from them.

I again went to my senior to see if we could help them. He told even if I would deem her unfit , the police would take them to a Government hospital which would give counter report . 

So there is nothing much we could do about it.

I know you feel bad about it.But what’s illegal is illegal.People from foreign countries get deported/arrested when they stay illegally . It’s the same here.Be loyal to your own country and it’s constitution. You’re losing track , he told.

Then I happened to have a lawyers advice through a friend of friend. I got to know that supposedly we can not provide legal help to the Burmese as of now.

Sad!

There are times you wish to help people. That’s beyond your reach. You cannot be unethical. You can’t help because it’s not your field. You can’t help because there are outsiders taking rights of people of your own nation. Without knowing the depth of issues like this you can’t plunge. And yes , it was not a medical emergency. 

Humanity . Well , Family > Others . Nationals> Refugees/ Foreigners

So far so much!

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