Nation pays tribute to Manik Mia

Staff Reporter :
The 54th death anniversary of legendary journalist Tofazzal Hossain Manik Mia was observed in a befitting manner on Thursday.

Marking the day, different socio-political organisations arranged programmes, including memorial meeting, Milad and Doa Mahfil.

Manik Mia Foundation and the daily The New Nation office organised a doa Mahfil on the occasion. Apart from this, the management of daily Ittefaq, also founded by Manik Mia, organised separate programme, including Doa Mahfil.

Earlier on the day, Manik Mia’s sons Barrister Mainul Hosein and Anwar Hossain Manju, as well as leaders and activists of different socio-political organisations placed floral wreaths and offered Fatiha at the grave of Manik Mia.

Meanwhile, a discussion meeting was held at Jatiya Press Club, organised by Jatiaya Party (Manju) to recall the immeasurable contribution of Manik Mia for the freedom struggle and fearless journalism. Information Minister Hasan Mahmud was present as the Chief Guest on the occasion.

Among others, Editor of Daily Observer Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury, Secretary General of Jatiya Party (Manju) Sheikh Shahidul Islam, were present.

Expressing his deep respect, the information minister stated that the Pakistani government had closed Daily Ittefaq and even arrested Manik Mia. He was arrested on the political ground, and no other reason, he said.

“Manik Mia, along with Zahur Hossain Chowdhury and several other journalists, set a remarkable example for the freedom struggle. To lead the country and society forward, we need journalists or newspapers that can contribute to the freedom struggle and the liberation of individuals.”
“For the emancipation of people, how a journalist or a newspaper can contribute, Manik Mia and his newspaper Ittefaq is an example,” he said.
Sheikh Shahidul Islam stated that there was a strong familial bond between Bangabandhu and Manik Mia.
“He actively supported the freedom movement under the leadership of Bangabandhu. He was present on the field during Bangladesh’s struggle for independence, and his pen played a significant role alongside Bangabandhu’s leadership,” he said.
The other discussants also recalled the fearless journalism of Manik Mia and his struggle to uphold the spirit of Bengali nationalism.