Bangladesh Physiotherapy Association (BPA), a professional body representing physiotherapists, on Saturday called for immediate steps to stop what they describe as "illegal raids and harassment" of physiotherapy centres across the country.
The demand was made during a press conference held at Jatiya Press Club.
BPA President Professor Dr Muhammad Anwar Hossain and General Secretary Dr Md Shahadat Hossain addressed the media alongside other association leaders.
Dr Anwar said physiotherapists in Bangladesh have long used the title of ‘doctor’, even prior to the country’s independence.
Following independence, he said, the Ministry of Health also recognised physiotherapists under the title in its official gazette.
In 2010, due to ambiguities in the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC) Act, the BPA filed a writ petition with the Supreme Court.
The BPA President said the Supreme Court ruled that the BMDC Act does not apply to physiotherapists holding bachelor’s degrees, allowing them to continue using the title and practicing independently, according to a BPA media release.
General Secretary Dr Shahadat Hossain described the ongoing raids against physiotherapists as ‘completely illegal’ and said it could amount to contempt of court.
He condemned what he referred to as targeted harassment in districts such as Brahmanbaria and Habiganj.
The BPA voiced strong protest against the recent actions and called on the government to immediately cease such raids.
Organising Secretary Dr Nesar Uddin urged authorities to uphold the professional rights of physiotherapists and ensure their ability to practice without interference.