A High Court bench yesterday seriously rebuked columnist Syed Abul Moksud for misinterpreting its order over protecting and preserving Mahasthangarh archeological site and its adjacent mosque and shrine in Bogra.

Abul Moksud yesterday voluntarily appeared before the HC bench of Justice AHM Shamsuddin Chowdhury Manik and Justice Sheikh Md Zakir Hossain and submitted a written statement to it.

The veteran journalist, in his statement, said flames will rage throughout the country if an initiative is taken to construct a new mosque demolishing the old mosque near Mahsatngarh following the HC order.

The bench termed Abul Moksud "irresponsible’’, "stupid”, and “liar” for his writing.

The bench said the court has directed the authorities to take steps for properly protecting and preserving Mahasthangarh archeological site and its adjacent mosque and shrine, but never ordered to demolish or relocate the old mosque.

Justice Shamsuddin told Abul Moksud, "You did not feel the necessity of reading our order before writing such horrendous and diabolic matter....”

At one stage of castigation, Moksud apologised to the court for his writing.

The bench asked him to appear before it today (Thursday) morning and to tender apologyinblackand white.