In the shadow of the ancient city of Khulna, the family of Utsab Mandal, a young college student, finds itself ensnared in a nightmare of persecution and fear. Utsab, accused of making blasphemous remarks against the Prophet Muhammad (SA) on Facebook, is now under military protection, while his family is forced to flee their home, dodging threats and potential violence.
Utsab’s ordeal began on September 4th, when local students took him to the office of the Deputy Police Commissioner (South) after he allegedly posted derogatory comments online. The situation rapidly deteriorated as news of the post spread through the community. By nightfall, an enraged mob of approximately 800-1000 people converged on the police station, demanding justice.
The mob’s fury did not subside with words. They stormed the station, bypassing security measures, and subjected Utsab to a brutal beating, leaving him critically injured. Despite the intervention of army and navy personnel, who worked to quell the violence and safeguard the young student, the damage had been done.
Amid this chaos, the Mandal family became collateral damage. Utsab’s father, Dinabandhu Mandal, a bank employee, has been unreachable since the night of the incident. Both his and his wife’s mobile phones have been switched off, a silent testament to their acute awareness of the danger they face. The family’s house on Circuit House Fire Brigade Road was found locked and deserted, with neighbors confirming that they have not seen any family members since the attack.
The implications of Utsab’s alleged actions extend beyond immediate physical dangers. A complaint was filed against him under the Cyber Security Act by Nasir Hossain, marking the beginning of a legal battle that could have severe repercussions. The local police have documented the case and initiated an investigation, highlighting the complex interplay of law, technology, and social mores in modern Bangladesh.
Inspector Nimai Chandra Kundu of the Khulna Sadar Police Station noted that the investigation would be thorough, taking into account all aspects of the case under the Cyber Security Act. Utsab faces charges under three distinct sections, each potentially carrying significant penalties.
As Utsab Mandal receives medical care under the watchful eyes of the military, ensuring his physical recovery and safety, his family remains displaced, their lives upended by a storm of religious fervor and societal judgment. Their story is a stark reminder of the fragile balance between religious sensitivity and freedom of expression in Bangladesh. It underscores the pressing need for protective measures for individuals and families caught in the crossfire of blasphemy allegations, advocating for a more nuanced approach to handling such volatile situations.
