Law adviser Asif Nazrul’s allegation that physicians act as “agents of pharmaceutical companies” has sparked widespread anger among doctors, BNP’s Health Affairs Secretary Dr Rafiqul Islam said on Friday.

In a statement, Rafiqul Islam said the remarks, made during the Annual General Meeting of the Bangladesh Private Hospital, Clinic and Diagnostic Owners Association, were baseless and insulting to the medical profession.

“Dr Nazrul is a respected jurist. His words have often inspired social change. But sweeping allegations like this create confusion and unrest,” he said.

Rafiqul Islam argued that Nazrul’s generalised attack undermines the dignity and morale of doctors who serve the nation with dedication and sacrifice. He cited their contributions during the Covid-19 pandemic and their role in Bangladesh’s democratic and liberation struggles.

He noted that parents still dream of seeing their children become doctors. “Such unwarranted remarks spread negative impressions,” he said, adding that many were disappointed that fellow doctors present at the event did not protest immediately.

The BNP leader also criticised Nazrul for praising foreign healthcare systems and encouraging treatment abroad, which he said demeans local professionals. “Even in neighbouring countries, pharmaceutical advertising is common. Should that make us their followers?” he asked.

Rafiqul urged Nazrul to withdraw the “discourteous” part of his speech and show respect to doctors. He also called on the government to address real problems in the health sector—corruption, poor infrastructure, low budgets, and unchecked drug prices—instead of letting public trust in doctors erode.

“Reform must come through policy and dialogue, not by branding doctors as agents,” he concluded.