AGARTALA: Former Union Minister Pratima Bhowmik on Monday urged the public to hold off on fundraising for 11-month-old Ipsita’s treatment until doctors confirm her diagnosis, after holding detailed discussions with the child’s family and a panel of specialists.
Bhowmik said Ipsita was admitted to GB Hospital on medical advice, where a team comprising neurologists Dr. Abirlal Nath, Dr. Arpan Mitra and paediatrician Dr. Sanjit Debbarma reviewed her case. While one report reportedly flagged Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), doctors said the infant may be suffering multiple complex health issues requiring further tests to confirm. She said the child currently weighs close to her birth weight, with doctors citing severe malnutrition among the concerns.
Bhowmik said financial help may be needed later, but urged transparency first, promising an official, verified crowdfunding call if required.
She also referenced Manushree, another SMA-affected child from Tripura who received public support for treatment, thanking citizens for their solidarity with both children and calling them “our own family’s children.”