Bangladesh Medical University (BMU) has revoked the lifetime emeritus professor title of medicine specialist Professor Dr. A.B.M. Abdullah and ordered him to return nearly two years of honorarium and allowances. The university stated that the decision was an administrative correction of an irregular appointment, not a personal or retaliatory action. The move has sparked widespread debate among doctors and on social media, with questions raised about the reasons and timing of the decision.

According to BMU, Dr. Abdullah’s appointment as lifetime emeritus professor did not follow required procedures such as departmental recommendations and evaluation committee approval. The university said the appointment was made solely on a syndicate member’s proposal and that Dr. Abdullah did not regularly attend work or engage in teaching or research despite receiving full benefits. BMU estimated he received over 1.4 million taka in payments. Critics, however, view the cancellation as disrespectful and politically motivated, while supporters argue it ensures transparency and accountability.

Dr. Abdullah, who served as personal physician to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, claimed the cancellation was unjust and questioned why it was done now after several years of service.