Asif Nazrul must apologize for comments on medical profession: DAB

The Doctors' Association of Bangladesh (DAB), a BNP-leaning physicians' group, has expressed deep disappointment and strong condemnation over recent remarks made by Dr. Asif Nazrul, Adviser to the Interim Government on Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs, regarding doctors and the medical profession in the country.

In a statement on Saturday evening, the newly elected DAB President Prof. Dr. Harun Al Rashid and Secretary General Dr. Md. Zahirul Islam Shakil said that such derogatory comments about physicians, despite being an adviser to the interim government, undermine the dedication and sacrifices of doctors. "Such remarks erode public trust in healthcare. We urge Dr. Asif Nazrul to immediately apologize for his comments."

They stated that despite not receiving fair wages and allowances, doctors across Bangladesh—ranging from remote rural clinics to the busiest urban hospitals—have been tirelessly providing healthcare services. From the COVID-19 pandemic to the ongoing dengue outbreaks, many doctors have risked their lives, with some even losing their lives. Yet, physicians have never wavered in their path of service and humanity.

The two DAB leaders further noted that during last year's July mass uprising, doctors provided medical treatment to the injured protesters, disregarding threats from the authoritarian regime. Despite the risk of losing their jobs and facing police harassment, doctors stood by the country's students and people. They said it is a grave injustice that, after such major contributions to the uprising, a government adviser—who is serving under a government born out of that very movement—would insult doctors.

They added that constructive criticism is a beauty of democracy, but it must be factual and respectful. Tarnishing the entire medical community unfairly demeans the sacrifices of thousands of honest and dedicated physicians, harms doctor-patient relationships, and ultimately discourages talented young people from entering the noble profession of medicine.

"We demand that Asif Nazrul provide an explanation of his remarks and issue an apology expressing regret," the leaders said.

They emphasized that the Doctors' Association of Bangladesh is committed to protecting the dignity of the medical profession, while also working for improvements, transparency, and accountability in healthcare. They welcomed constructive dialogue that strengthens the health system, but warned that DAB would strongly protest against any disparaging or deliberately demeaning statements about doctors. If necessary, they said, they would take strong programs to defend the professional dignity of physicians.

Earlier, Interim Government Adviser on Law Dr. Asif Nazrul commented that many doctors in Bangladesh work to serve the interests of pharmaceutical companies rather than those of their patients. He directly questioned: "Are doctors acting as agents or middlemen for pharmaceutical companies?"