A man accused of violently attacking a khateeb at a mosque in Chandpur has been sent to jail following a court appearance and confession.
The accused, Billal Hossain, allegedly launched the assault inside the Professori Para Molla Bari Jame Mosque after Jumma prayers on Friday, 11 July. The incident reportedly stemmed from a sermon in which the khateeb referred to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as a “message bearer,” a phrase that allegedly provoked Billal’s anger.
Billal was produced before the court of Judicial Magistrate Shahadatul Hasan Al Murad on Saturday afternoon. During the hearing, he gave a confessional statement, after which the magistrate ordered him into judicial custody.
The case was filed by Afnan Taqi, the son of the injured khateeb, naming Billal Hossain as the sole accused.
Chandpur Court Police Inspector Shahidullah confirmed that the accused was brought to court at 3 pm and sent to jail after recording his statement. The investigation is being led by Sub-Inspector Nazmul Hossain of Chandpur Sadar Model Police Station.
Rumours circulated on social media throughout the day claiming the khateeb had died, but his son clarified that he is alive and recovering. Initially treated at Chandpur General Hospital, the cleric was later transferred to Dhaka’s Holy Care Hospital and is reportedly out of danger.
The attack, which took place following heated disputes over the Friday khutbah, has caused unrest in the city. In response, the Superintendent of Police, Muhammad Abdur Rakib, held an emergency meeting with local political and religious leaders to maintain peace and order.
Later in the day, activists of Jamaat-e-Islami’s Chandpur city unit organised a protest rally and procession from the premises of Railway Baitul Amin Jame Mosque, condemning the attack and demanding justice.