Tousif Ahmed Threatens Legal Action Over Cyber Attacks

Bangladeshi singer and songwriter Tousif Ahmed, who recently suffered a severe stroke, has returned home after days of hospitalisation, only to find himself battling a different kind of ordeal — sustained cyberbullying and the spread of false information on social media. While still recovering physically from his illness, Tousif has said the online abuse has taken a heavy emotional toll and that he is now considering legal action under the country’s cyber laws.

Tousif was discharged from hospital on Friday after his condition stabilised. During the medical emergency, he sustained a serious head injury that required 27 stitches, adding to the gravity of his health crisis. Although doctors have confirmed that his condition has improved, the artist admits that the psychological strain caused by online hostility has left him deeply shaken.

Speaking to Prothom Alo on Saturday morning, Tousif said the negativity began almost immediately after he shared news of his illness on Facebook. According to him, a section of social media users posted cruel remarks, mockery, and entirely baseless claims about both his health and his family. “These comments were deeply hurtful,” he said. “At a time when compassion is expected, I witnessed celebration and ridicule instead.”

The incident that led to his hospitalisation occurred on 28 December, when Tousif suddenly collapsed at his residence in Mohammadpur, Dhaka. He remained unconscious for a prolonged period before his wife and children discovered him and rushed him to a private hospital. After several days under close medical supervision, he was allowed to return home, though doctors have advised further tests and extended rest.

In a strongly worded Facebook post, Tousif wrote that while he could personally withstand criticism, cyberbullying, defamation, and the deliberate spread of misinformation crossed a line. He stated that he is now weighing the option of filing cases under the Cyber Security Act, describing the actions against him as criminal rather than merely offensive.

Reflecting on the wider issue, Tousif lamented the growing intolerance on social media platforms. “People seem to have forgotten where empathy should come first,” he told the newspaper. “False stories involving my family were circulated, damaging my dignity. Those who know me understand my values. I respectfully ask people not to drag my family into malicious gossip.”

Addressing his fans, the singer struck an emotional note. “I may not have become a great artist,” he said, “but my greatest achievement is that songs I recorded more than fifteen years ago are still being listened to and loved today. For an artist, there can be no greater reward.” He urged the public not to believe or spread rumours without knowing the truth.

Tousif Ahmed has been struggling with health issues for several years, limiting his ability to work regularly. Despite his current challenges, he remains hopeful. “By the grace of God, I am feeling better than before,” he said, while requesting prayers from well-wishers as he prepares for further medical examinations.

Health History at a Glance :

Career Highlights :

Known not only as a singer but also as a lyricist, composer, and music arranger, Tousif Ahmed remains a respected figure in Bangladeshi music. His current struggle, however, has reignited conversations around empathy, digital responsibility, and the darker side of social media culture.