PM Orders Suspension of Doctor Caught Smoking in Office During Hospital Visit

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman expressed dissatisfaction after finding a doctor smoking inside his office during a surprise visit to Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Saturday. He ordered the temporary suspension of Associate Professor Rafiqul Islam, who was later suspended by the hospital authorities.

The prime minister visited the hospital on Saturday (October 17) afternoon, touring various departments to assess the working conditions of doctors and healthcare workers and inspect the cleanliness of the facility.

During the visit, Tarique Rahman entered the office of Associate Professor Rafiqul Islam and found him smoking. The prime minister also noticed that the doctor's office was unclean. He expressed dissatisfaction with the doctor's conduct at an important healthcare institution.

The prime minister subsequently instructed Professor Dr AKM Azizul Haque, chairman of the hospital's governing board, to take action against the doctor. Following the directive, Rafiqul Islam was temporarily suspended.

During the inspection, the prime minister stressed the need to maintain a hygienic hospital environment, ensure cleanliness and require doctors and other staff members to discharge their duties responsibly.