‘A selfless crusader for secularism, democracy’

Politicians, academics, rights activists, and other notable figures gathered at the National Museum to express their condolences and pay tribute to the late Oikya NAP President Pankaj Bhattacharya yesterday.

Described as a lifelong crusader for the establishment of a secular and democratic society, as well as a champion for the rights of marginalised people, Pankaj was remembered as an honest, humble, and fearless politician who dedicated his life to serving the nation.

During the commemoration meeting organised by a group of citizens, mourners expressed their grief through the recitation of poems and the singing of Tagore songs, commemorating Pankaj's contributions as one of the organisers of the country's Liberation War.

Dr Kamal Hossain, president of Gano Forum and a longtime colleague of Pankaj, praised his fearlessness in standing against injustice, even in the face of risk.

Described as a lifelong crusader for the establishment of a secular and democratic society, as well as a champion for the rights of marginalised people, Pankaj was remembered as an honest, humble, and fearless politician who dedicated his life to serving the nation.

"Pankaj fought tirelessly for the rights of the people until his last breath," he said.

Pankaj was a key member of Gano Forum, which was established in 1993, and eventually formed the Oikya Nap in 2013.

He had previously served as the General Secretary of the National Awami Party during the Liberation War and fulfilled his duties until 1971.

Pankaj played a crucial role as one of the leaders of the NAP-Communist Party-Students Union Special Guerrilla Forces, an armed force that fought valiantly during the Liberation War.

Dr Kamal emphasised the importance of spreading Pankaj's ideology and selfless contributions to the nation and its people. He noted that Pankaj was an exceptional individual who could not be swayed by allurements or threats, and his memory would forever remain with those who knew him.

Rashed Khan Menon, president of the Workers Party, highlighted Pankaj's unwavering stance against communalism and his advocacy for a secular society. He also recognised Pankaj as a vocal advocate for the rights of indigenous groups.

Information Minister Hasan Mahmud echoed these sentiments, stating that Pankaj was a non-communal man who actively participated in every democratic movement in the country.

Sultana Kamal, a prominent rights activist, described individuals like Pankaj as rare, emphasising his honesty and steadfastness in his belief that politics should not divide people or society. She praised Pankaj for his dedication to the welfare of the common people, without seeking personal supremacy.

Sarwar Ali, a trustee of the Liberation War Museum, recalled Pankaj's unwavering support for victims of communal attacks and his commitment to resisting communalism. He regarded Pankaj as a trusted and true friend of marginalised communities.

Presiding over the meeting, historian Syed Anwar Hossain hailed Pankaj as a true politician who sacrificed his life for the betterment of the common people.

During the commemoration meeting, several other notable figures, including Communist Party of Bangladesh President Mohammad Shah Alam, Oikya NAP central leader ASMA Sabur, Bangladesh Adivasi Forum General Secretary Sanjeeb Drong, Pankaj's brother-in-law Manas Basu, Sammilita Samajik Andolan leader Mohammad Nur Mohammad, thespian Ramendu Majumdar, DU Pro-VC and poet Muhammad Samad, delivered speeches honouring Pankaj's memory.