Khulna mob attack victim Utsob alive: ISPR

A college student in Khulna, Utsob Mondal, who was assaulted by a mob over allegedly posting derogatory messages about the Holy Prophet (PBUH) on Facebook, is alive and receiving medical treatment, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The incident unfolded on September 4 when 22-year-old Utsob was apprehended by local residents after his social media post ignited outrage. A large crowd gathered, demanding his public punishment, and some members of the mob stormed the Khulna Deputy Commissioner of Police's office, where Utsob was being held.

In a press release on Thursday, the ISPR clarified that armed forces personnel intervened to control the situation and successfully rescued Utsob alive. He is currently under army supervision and out of danger.

A case has been filed against Utsob for offending religious values, and once his health improves, he will be handed over to law enforcement officials for legal proceedings.

The ISPR urged the public not to believe rumors circulating on social media about Utsob’s death. The Bangladesh Army reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and preventing extrajudicial killings, requesting the public to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation.

False reports had circulated, claiming that Utsob, a Class XI student at a local college, had died from the mob attack. The rumors intensified after an announcement from a local mosque suggested he had been killed, leading the crowd to disperse. However, law enforcement officials confirmed that Utsob survived the assault and is receiving medical care.