Kolkata: A doctor in Kolkata has announced a discount in his consultation fee if patients visiting his clinic say ‘Jai Shree Ram. The doctor has also put up a poster in his private clinic, announcing the offer. In the poster, he can be seen wearing a BJP scarf.

Responding to his offer, cardiologist Dr P K Hazra said that ‘Jai Shree Ram’ is not a religious but a political slogan. The doctor further added that he had all the right to follow a political ideology. He added that only change would help West Bengal get out of the ‘current dip’.

Entirely my idea: Dr Hajra

Speaking to PTI, Hazra said, “This is entirely my idea. As a doctor over the years, I have faced questions from several of my patients about why they have to go to other states for treatment. I feel bad every time I see patients from Bengal going to Assam, Odisha, or South India, and not the reverse happening”.

“I think we need a change in this trend. That is the reason I came up with this idea.” The director of the Interventional Cardiology Department at a private hospital said he is offering this discount to patients who consult him at his chamber in south Kolkata and not at the hospital,” he added.

“I am not directly associated with the BJP, but I admire the way other states under their rule have progressed,” he was quoted as saying further. The doctor further claimed that he expected a ticket from the BJP to contest from Pingla in Paschim Medinipur district.

Cardiologist praises CM Mamata Banerjee

The cardiologist, however, also praised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. “She (Banerjee) has done good work, but given the pace at which other states have progressed, Bengal is lagging. But much more needs to be done. If the BJP comes to power, there may be some progress,” he observed.