Members of the Pharmaceutical Representative Association (FARIA) formed a human chain in Sariakandi, Bogra, demanding a government-style salary structure, safe working conditions, and professional dignity.
The program was held at 10:00 am on Sunday (May 10) in front of the Sariakandi Upazila Health Complex under the banner of the Upazila FARIA Committee. The event was chaired by committee president Abid Reza and conducted by general secretary Farooq.
Sales representatives from different pharmaceutical companies across the upazila joined the human chain in support of a six-point demand aimed at improving the quality of life and working conditions of pharmaceutical representatives amid rising living costs.
Among those who spoke were Rashed Khan, Nur Hossain, and Abid Reza. Speakers said pharmaceutical representatives play an important role in the healthcare system by providing doctors with updated scientific information on medicines, including dosage, effectiveness, and possible side effects.
They said representatives work in difficult conditions, traveling through remote rural areas and urban centers to ensure medicine availability and support better patient care.
“We are not brokers; we are friends of patients,” the speakers said during the program.
The speakers also alleged that medical representatives are often subjected to disrespect, mental harassment, and derogatory remarks while performing their duties. They said being labeled as “brokers” damages their professional and social dignity and creates mental stress for them and their families.
The leaders called on the concerned authorities to ensure respectful treatment in workplaces, protect the professional dignity of pharmaceutical representatives, and introduce effective policies for a safe and fair working environment.
