Jatin Sarker

Jatin Sarker, a Marxist scholar, teacher, and intellectual, is known for his unwavering dedication to the cause of freedom of thought and expression. Born in Netrokona in 1936, he has always been a strong advocate for human rights and an opponent of discrimination, communal politics, and all forms of social oppression. Throughout his illustrious career, Jatin has fearlessly raised his voice against such injustices and has inspired countless others to do the same.

As a sixth-grade student, Jatin participated in the early stages of the language movement in 1948. In 1952, he played a crucial role in organising the demonstration in Netrokona in response to the killing of students in Dhaka.

Throughout his entire life, Jatin has been dedicated to progressive politics. He served as the president of the progressive cultural organization, Udichi. In the mid-70s, his political beliefs led him to spend a year in jail. Despite facing challenges and obstacles, Jatin remained steadfast in his commitment to his principles and continued to be a voice for change and progress.

Jatin has left an indelible mark on the intellectual landscape of Bangladesh through his extensive body of work. His masterpiece, "Pakistaner Janma-mrityu Darshan" (Witness to the Birth and Death of Pakistan), is a memoir that offers a captivating and enlightening perspective on the evolution and eventual decline of the idea of Pakistan. Some of his other notable literary works include "Bangladesher Kavigan" (Kavi songs of Bangladesh), "Bangaleer Somajtantrik Oitijya" (Bengalis' Socialist Tradition) and "Sanskritir Sangram" (Cultural Struggle).

The Daily Star pays tribute to Jatin as a defender of the rights of the underprivileged and celebrate his lifetime of unwavering commitment to the principles of freedom of thought and expression.