A man accused of posing as a doctor and misleading patients with claims that a special device could diagnose diseases simply by placing a hand on it has been fined Tk 50,000 in Babuganj, Barishal.
The accused, Alimul Islam, 48, had reportedly been treating patients across several areas of Barishal for nearly 15 years using a laptop and a specialised device. Authorities said he failed to produce valid documents proving his medical qualifications.
The case came to light after Saleha Begum, who was seeking treatment for headaches and eye problems, visited him on the recommendation of a middleman. She was told that he could identify various illnesses using a special machine. However, she later questioned his credentials and alleged that she had been misled.
According to local reports, Islam regularly saw patients in Barishal Sadar, Uzirpur and Babuganj, including areas near Madhabpasha Bazar and Babuganj Degree College. He reportedly used the title “Dr” on his prescriptions and claimed qualifications and training in India and Bangladesh, as well as expertise in treating medical, skin, sexual and allergy-related conditions.
Following complaints, a mobile court led by Babuganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Asma Ul Husna conducted a raid at NMS Pharmacy near the college gate on Sunday night, October 18. Officials from the local health department were also present.
During the operation, authorities examined his credentials and found that the documents he presented were allegedly fraudulent. The medical equipment and documents used in his practice were seized.
Medical Officer Turjo Adhikari said the health department had verified the documents and found them to be fake. He added that the administration and health authorities would continue joint operations against such practices.
The upazila administration fined Islam Tk 50,000. He was spared a prison sentence on the condition that he would not engage in medical practice in the future, officials said.
The incident has raised concerns about the risks faced by patients who rely on unverified medical practitioners and unproven diagnostic methods. Authorities have urged people to verify a healthcare provider’s credentials before seeking treatment.
Reporting by Borderless for The Borderless Journal. Filed under Uncategorized · 20 Oct 2026, 14:00.
