Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Hatia, Md Alauddin, has been relieved of his duties and made an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) following the circulation of an alleged objectionable video on social media.
The decision was confirmed through a government notification issued by the Ministry of Public Administration on Tuesday evening, signed by Senior Assistant Secretary Md Tanvir Hasan Ruman.
The development comes after a 29-second video, purportedly involving the UNO and a young woman, went viral on social media platforms on Monday, sparking widespread discussion and criticism both locally and nationwide.
Responding to the allegations, Md Alauddin denied the authenticity of the video, claiming it was fabricated using artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
He alleged that the video was circulated with malicious intent from his previous posting area in Sunamganj’s Taherpur area.
According to locals, after the video surfaced, the official left his workplace on Monday morning for the district Sadar upazila, and since then he has remained unreachable.
Officials at the UNO office acknowledged being aware of the viral video but said the identity of the woman seen in the footage could not be confirmed.
While speculation continues surrounding the incident, some local observers have described it as a possible “honey trap”, though no official confirmation has been given.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether any formal investigation has been initiated into the matter.
MR/AM