Rajshahi divisional health directorate on Monday started investigation into allegations of power abuse and irregularities against an assistant direc-tor of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH).

Following a ministerial order, the divisional health Director Dr Abdur Rashid Mridha called RMCH Assistant Director Dr Muhibul Hasan to his office and enquired him about the allegations.

Dr Muhibul is general secretary of RMCH chapters of Bangladesh Medical Association and Swadhinata Chikitsak Parishad, a doctors' forum backed by the ruling Awami League.

Some 14 doctors who were

allegedly victimised by Muhibul were also enquired.

The investigation was initiated following an anonymous letter that was sent to the health ministry alleging that Dr Muhibul forced some 14 doctors to give him money by threatening them of transfer.

Talking to The Daily Star, health Director Dr Abdur Rashid Mridha confirmed the investigation but declined to give details.

When contacted, Dr Muhibul Hasan said the allegations against him are false.

"The health director interviewed me over the allegations that came through an anonymous letter. Those who are envious at the development works under my leadership are circulating propaganda against me," he said.