The High Court (HC) has ruled that no one can use the title "Doctor" before their name unless they have an MBBS or BDS degree. 

The decision was made on Wednesday (March 12) by a bench of Justice Razik-Al-Jalil and Justice Shathika Hossain after hearing two separate petitions.

According to court, no action will be taken against those who have already used the title without the required degree. However, legal steps will be taken against anyone who violates this rule in the future.

The Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council Act, introduced in 2010, regulates the use of medical titles. Section 29 of the Act states that only individuals with recognized medical or dental degrees can use "Dr" before their names. Anyone violating this law can face up to three years in prison, a Tk 1 lakh fine, or both. If the violation continues, additional fines of at least Tk 50,000 will be imposed.

A legal challenge against this section of the law was filed in 2013 by Shamsul Huda, then convener of the Bangladesh Diploma Association, and others, arguing that it was unfair to DMF diploma holders. Another writ was filed last year by the Bangladesh Diploma Medical Association's president and secretary.

On November 25, 2024, the High Court asked the government to explain whether Section 29 contradicts the constitution. Advocate Shishir Monir represented the petitioners, while Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman and Deputy Attorney General AFM Saiful Karim stood for the state. Advocate Kazi Ershadul Alam represented the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council.

BDST: 1555 HRS, March 11, 2025
MSK/SMS