Today is the 45th death anniversary of veteran politician Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani, a lifelong fighter for the rights of the oppressed and leader of the toiling masses.

Maulana Bhasani, popularly known as "Majlum Jananeta (the leader of the downtrodden)", passed away on November 17 in 1976.

Marking the day, different programmes, including placing wreaths at Bhasani's grave in Santosh of Tangail, discussions and doa mahfils, have been taken to observed the day in the capital and at Santosh in Tangail. 

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued a message on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of death of Maulana Bhasani, paying glowing tributes to the late legendary political figure of the country.

Maulana Bhasani was always vocal against repression-oppression of Pakistani rulers, she said, adding that Bhasani played an important role in flourishing Bengali nationalism.

Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani, born in 1880 in Dhangara in Sirajganj, was the son of Haji Sharafat Ali Khan. He gained immense popularity among peasants.

Bhasani was the founder and president of Pakistan Awami Muslim League which later became Bangladesh Awami League (AL). He also formed a progressive political organisation called National Awami Party (NAP).

Bhasani played a very significant role in the 1969 movement against Pakistan, which eventually led to the collapse of the Ayub regime and the release of Bangabandhu and other co-accused in the so-called Agartala conspiracy case.

BDST: 1247 HRS, NOV 17, 2021
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