Claiming to be an “internationally awarded cancer researcher and doctor from Asia” without holding any medical degree, self-proclaimed homeopathic physician Dr. S.M. Sarwar has allegedly been defrauding patients for years.

Investigations reveal that Sarwar, who reportedly holds only an SSC pass, operated chambers in Dhaka’s Purana Paltan and Habiganj, presenting himself as a cancer treatment expert.

Sarwar’s political past is equally controversial. Once a close ally of the former Awami League government, he attempted to enter parliament through both the 11th and 12th national elections.

He collected nomination papers from Dhaka-8 under the banner of the Bangladesh Islamic Front and frequently attended Awami League programs, including National Mourning Day events.

Critics allege he is now trying to shield Awami League leaders from legal fallout through Islamic organizations such as the Islamic Front, Jubosena, and Chhatrosena.

Three legal notices have already been served against Sarwar. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS)’s Homeopathy and Indigenous Medicine Department submitted an investigation report confirming that he falsely styled himself as a “cancer researcher, national award recipient, and principal,” despite lacking any valid qualification.

The report also found that Sarwar runs a broker network that lures patients from hospitals to his chambers, where he allegedly earns more than Tk 1 lakh daily.

Despite this, no effective action has been taken against him. Victims allege that patients have died after receiving unapproved treatments, including the use of injections not permitted in homeopathy.

In one case, the injection of a child with a head tumor in Narail led to the child’s death. Families who tried to seek justice claim they were threatened, harassed, or pressured into financial settlements.

Lawyer Advocate Muhammad Nazrul Islam Khan Pakhi has filed multiple legal notices, the latest demanding nearly Tk 10 crore in compensation.

Journalist Fojit Sheikh Babu also lodged a general diary at Shahbagh Police Station after Sarwar allegedly threatened to kill him and the lawyer during a press conference.

Experts warn that inaction against such fraudulent practices could endanger countless lives. Civil society and victims’ families have demanded that DGHS immediately shut down Sarwar’s operations, dismantle his network, and prosecute those involved.

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