In a rare show of compassion, Bangladesh’s largest retail chain Shwapno has extended emergency medical and humanitarian assistance to a severely ill and injured woman who was found lying in front of its Sonadanga outlet in Khulna.
The woman, identified as 50-year-old Taslima Khatun, was first spotted by Shwapno staff on 2 July in a visibly distressed condition.
The outlet’s frontline team, known internally as “Shwapno warriors”, noticed that Taslima appeared extremely weak and had sustained a head injury. They immediately offered her juice and food, but soon realised her situation was more serious.
Staff observed that her head wound had begun to show signs of infection and her overall condition was rapidly deteriorating.
Shwapno’s Head of Administration for Crisis Management, Recovery and Compliance, Mohammad Masum Billah, said, “As soon as the matter came to my attention, I discussed it with our Managing Director, Mr. Sabbir Hasan Nasir. On his instruction, we arranged immediate medical assistance for the elderly woman.”
Following directives from the top management, Shwapno’s Head of Corporate Affairs Dr. Sohel Moinuddin Shaibal rushed to the spot to oversee the situation and coordinate Taslima’s admission to a local hospital.
“We also express our sincere gratitude to the police and fire service personnel who supported us in helping this woman get urgent care,” said Masum Billah. “This is part of our ongoing commitment to stand by those in need. Shwapno is not just a business, it’s a social responsibility.”
Taslima was admitted to hospital on July 4, and is currently under medical care in Khulna.
Managing Director Sabbir Hasan Nasir, commenting on the gesture, said, “We at Shwapno fight against nightmares in whatever form they come, within our capacity. A mother is the heart of a family and society. I sincerely thank the law enforcement officials who stood beside us to support this distressed mother. It is also important to investigate who caused the injury to her head — I hope the authorities will look into it.”
The incident has sparked appreciation across social media, with many praising Shwapno for demonstrating corporate compassion and responsible citizenship at a time when such acts are often overlooked.
For now, Taslima is receiving regular treatment and support, thanks to the combined efforts of Shwapno’s staff, senior management, and local emergency services — a testament to how a corporate body can rise above business to touch lives.