Law Adviser Asif Nazrul has apologised to doctors following backlash over remarks he made during a program on Saturday (16 August).

During his speech, he questioned whether some physicians were acting as “agents or middlemen for pharmaceutical companies,” a comment that drew strong criticism from medical professionals.

BNP Health Affairs Secretary Dr Rafiqul Islam, the pro-BNP Doctors’ Association of Bangladesh (DAB), the National Doctors Forum, and the Jatiya Nagorik Party all issued statements condemning his remarks.

In a Facebook post on Sunday night, Asif Nazrul clarified his position, saying his comments had been misrepresented in the media.

“At the event, I first spoke about my own positive experiences as a patient. I then mentioned criticisms I had heard from others, stressing that these do not apply to all doctors. I acknowledged that many physicians are honest and dedicated, but there have been allegations against some,” he wrote.

He added that newspapers failed to publish his statement in full, creating the impression that his criticisms targeted the entire medical profession.

“I unequivocally state that my remarks were directed at a certain section of doctors, not all. However, the way some reports presented my comments may have caused deep distress to the vast majority of physicians who serve patients with dedication, honesty, and skill,” Asif Nazrul said.

Apologising to the doctors, he added, “I sincerely regret any hurt my remarks may have caused to my brothers and sisters in the medical profession.”

At the same time, he urged healthcare professionals to examine whether such allegations are true in isolated cases and take necessary corrective measures if required.