Cyberbullying Targets Stroke-Affected Bangladeshi Singer Tousif

Renowned Bangladeshi singer Tousif Ahmed, who recently suffered a severe stroke, returned home from hospital on Friday following a period of intensive treatment. During his illness, he underwent 27 stitches to his head, leaving him physically weakened. However, beyond the physical ordeal, Tousif has also faced significant emotional distress, having become a victim of cyberbullying after news of his health circulated on social media. The singer has stated that he is considering legal action against those spreading false information and abusive comments.

In an interview with Prothom Alo on Saturday morning, Tousif revealed that shortly after posting about his health on Facebook, “a segment of people began posting hurtful, baseless comments. These remarks have deeply affected me.”

Tousif recounted the terrifying incident that led to his hospitalisation. On the morning of 28 December last year, at his home in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, he suddenly lost consciousness and remained unresponsive for an extended period. His wife and child quickly rushed him to a private hospital in Dhaka, where he underwent several days of treatment before returning home.

In a Facebook post, he wrote:
“Several individuals made negative remarks following news of my stroke. While it does not harm me physically, I am considering legal proceedings under the Cyber Security Act for cyberbullying, defamation, and the spreading of false information.”

Tousif further explained, “I have noticed that many social media users are increasingly intolerant. They seem to have forgotten the boundaries of decency. Instead of showing compassion during someone’s illness, some express joy or spread false stories about me and my family. This is damaging to my reputation, and I intend to take legal action. Those who know me well understand my character—please do not malign my family.”

Addressing his fans, Tousif said emotionally, “I may not have become the biggest star, but my greatest achievement is that songs I recorded over fifteen years ago are still enjoyed by many. For a musician, what could be a greater reward? Please do not circulate false rumours about me without knowing the truth.”

Tousif has long battled various health issues, which have affected his ability to work consistently. On his current condition, he shared, “Alhamdulillah, I am somewhat better now, but there are many more tests and treatments ahead. I ask everyone to pray for me.”

Previously, Tousif suffered heart attacks in April 2022 and October 2024 and has been on prolonged medical rest under doctors’ advice.

Renowned for his contributions to Bangladeshi music, Tousif Ahmed lent his voice to hits such as “Duure Kothao Achi Boshe”, “Brishti Jhore Jay”, “E Moner Anginay”, and “Jan Pakhi”. Besides singing, he is also active in songwriting, composition, and music arrangement, with his first solo album “Abhipray” released in 2007.

Tousif Ahmed – Key Facts

Tousif Ahmed’s recent experience highlights not only the physical and emotional challenges faced by artists but also the growing need for online responsibility and empathy in an era of pervasive social media.