The Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB), a pro-BNP physicians’ organisation, has suspended the primary membership of its Assistant Secretary for Legal Affairs, Dr Zahid Hasan Ripok, over the alleged assault on the director of the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) at his office in Dhaka.

The organisation has also issued a 48-hour show-cause notice to the accused doctor and formed an investigation committee to examine the incident, which took place at around 11:30am on Wednesday.

DAB President Professor Harun Al Rashid confirmed the suspension, saying the organisation had identified the primary person allegedly involved after reviewing video footage of the incident.

He said the accused had been given 48 hours to explain his position.

Strict organisational action would be taken if his explanation was found unsatisfactory.

According to reports, IEDCR Director Professor Kazi Ahmed Zaki was holding a meeting with several people in his office when eight to nine individuals entered the room, pulled him from his chair and allegedly assaulted him.

CCTV footage reportedly captured the incident.

DAB Secretary General Dr Zahirul Islam Shakil said the organisation was also investigating whether the other individuals involved were members of DAB.

If their involvement and membership were established, action would be taken against them as well.

Both Professor Zaki and Dr Zahid are lifetime members of the organisation.

DAB leaders said the organisation did not support such acts of disorder or wrongdoing and would not protect anyone found responsible.

The motive behind the incident remains unclear. DAB leaders said Dr Zahid had previously worked on a project at IEDCR and had recently lost his job.

Whether the incident was linked to his employment or any other personal or professional dispute would be examined during the investigation.

Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman condemned the alleged assault, describing it as a criminal offence.

He called for a proper investigation and action against those responsible.

The investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether others were involved.