A Kolkata-based cardiologist, Dr. P.K. Hazra, has introduced a Rs 500 discount on consultation fees for patients who display a poster with the phrase “Jai Shri Ram.” This offer is specifically valid at his private clinic in Ballygunge and not at any corporate hospital. Dr. Hazra, also associated with Manipal Hospital, sees this initiative as a way to contribute to society through his medical practice.
Explaining his decision, Dr. Hazra mentioned that he has been treating patients for free and considers this discount as an extension of his efforts to assist people, aligning with his personal beliefs. He clarified that the offer is open to all patients, regardless of their religion or economic status. Dr. Hazra views “Jai Shri Ram” as a political slogan rather than a religious one, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP.
Patients presenting a designated poster with a QR code and the words “Jai Shri Ram” are eligible for the Rs 500 discount. Dr. Hazra reduced his consultation fee from Rs 2,000 by Rs 500 before the elections, with the current offer providing an additional reduction. He emphasized that this initiative aims to benefit needy patients and is not supported by corporate hospitals due to political pressures.
Dr. Hazra expressed his desire to formally join politics through the BJP in the future. He acknowledged the need for significant groundwork within society and community networks before contesting elections. The announcement has evoked mixed reactions, with some praising it as a unique outreach strategy, while others question the blend of medical services with political messaging.
