In remembrance of Manik Mia on his 57th death anniversary

Monday, the 1st of June, marks the 57th death anniversary of legendary figure Tofazzel Hossain Manik Mia who was not just a journalist or an editor — he was a statesman, a visionary leader of people and above all an uncompromising fighter for the truth.

Thus, remembering him on his death anniversary means remembering an ideal that awakened the political consciousness, self-respect and desire for independence of Bangladesh.

However, it goes without saying that the journalism of Manik Mia’s time and the journalism of today are not the same.

He took up the pen in an era when the price of speaking the truth was imprisonment, the closure of newspapers, the confiscation of the press, or personal disaster.

At that time, the question of the existence of newspapers was intertwined with the question of the existence of a nation.

Journalism was not just a profession; it was a struggle, it was resistance, it was a historical responsibility.

Despite being repeatedly persecuted and angered by the Pakistani ruling class, he did not put down his pen.

Because, he realized that newspapers are not just a tool for delivering news — they are a mirror of a nation’s identity.

These days we live in the wonderful age of technology. News now reaches from one end of the world to the other within seconds.

Social media and digital platforms have radically changed the character of the flow of information.

But even in this abundance of information, the crisis of truth is becoming increasingly apparent.

In the era of Manik Mia, the freedom of the press was in danger in the face of state oppression.

This is where Manik Mia becomes relevant again.

He used to think that if a newspaper is not the language of human suffering, hopes and aspirations and sense of rights, then its existence has no significance.

He did not succumb to the temptation of government privileges, nor did he compromise with principles for personal gains.

In fact, Manik Mia has raised a deep philosophical question in the history of journalism.

Looking at his life and work, it is clear that he has stood up for the oppressed while maintaining the integrity of the information.

Even in the absence of Manik Mia, Dainik Ittefaq has remained an important beacon in Bangladeshi journalism for decades.

This has been possible mainly by standing on the foundation he built.
We pray for the forgiveness of his departed soul.