Journalist Sadeq Khan passes away

Ekushey Padak winner, eminent journalist and columnist Sadeq Khan died of old age complications yesterday.

The 83-year-old fell sick at his Baridhara residence in the capital in the morning. Soon he was rushed to a private hospital where he was declared dead, his younger sister Selima Rahman, BNP vice-chairman, told The Daily Star.

NP vice-chairman, told The Daily Star.

He has his wife Anjuman Chowdhury Khan, son Kishon Khan, relatives, friends and many other well wishers to mourn his death. His wife and son are now staying abroad.

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and journalist leaders offered their condolences to the bereaved family.

In her condolence massage, Khaleda said Sadek was truly a patriot who had worked for the nation throughout his life.

“Freedom of opinions is vital for upholding democratic spirit. The role of Sadek Khan was praiseworthy in ensuring freedom of expression,” she observed.

Information Minister Hasanul Haq Inu and Nobel Peace Laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus also expressed their condolences for the death.

Sadeq's body will be taken to the National Press Club today to hold his first namaj-e-janaza. He will be buried in his father's grave at Banani graveyard following funeral prayers at Gulshan Azad Mosque after zohr prayers.

Born in 1936, Sadeq had an illustrious career. He worked for several newspapers beginning with the daily Sangbad as a lead writer in 1955. He served as contributing editor in the weekly Holiday.

Sadeq also played a key role in developing the country's film industry. He directed and produced acclaimed film Nadi O Nari.

He was the chairman of Gonoshasthya Kendra Trust. Gono Bishwabidyalay held a condolence meeting at its Savar campus over the death of the veteran journalist who worked with the Bangladesh government in exile during the war of independence in 1971.

He was informally assigned at the time to oversee logistics and external publicity, keeping in touch with sector commanders and cultural leaders.

His four brothers are New Age founding editor Enayetullah Khan, poet Abu Zafar Obaidullah, Civil Aviation Minister Rashed Khan Menon and New Age publisher ASM Shahidullah Khan.