The nation observes the 64th death anniversary of Sher-e-Bangla Abul Kashem Fazlul Huq today (Monday).
AK Fazlul Huq, extensively known as Sher-e-Bangla (Tiger of Bengal) or Huq Saheb, died on April 27, 1962 in Dhaka.
He was born on October 26, 1873 at his maternal uncle's house at the present-day Bakerganj upazila in Barishal district. His ancestral home was in Chakhar, a village located 14 miles from Barishal city.
AK Fazlul Huq held many high-lever political posts, including All-India Muslim League president (1916–1921), mayor of Calcutta (1935), prime minister of Undivided Bengal (1937–1943), Chief Minister of East Bengal (1954), Home Minister of Pakistan (1955), and Governor of East Pakistan (1956–1958).
President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued separate messages paying glowing tribute to the late leader.
President Shahabuddin, in his message, said Fazlul Huq was an extraordinarily wise, courageous, and prudent statesman who held many important positions during his illustrious political career.
Highlighting his lifelong commitment to public welfare, the president said Fazlul Huq worked for more than half a century for the well-being of the common people as a dedicated politician and social reformer.
He described him as a precursor of the political arena of undivided Bengal and a leader of farmers, workers, and the masses. He founded the Krishak Praja Party (KPP) in 1936 and the Sramik-Krishak Dal in 1953.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, in his message, said Fazlul Huq ushered in a new chapter in the subcontinent's politics by presenting the Lahore Resolution in 1940.
He said the resolution remains an important subject of discussion among historians even today and reflects Huq’s visionary leadership.
Tarique Rahman emphasised Fazlul Huq's commitment to the welfare of the farmers, describing him as a true representative of Bengal’s farmers.
Highlighting Fazlul Huq's commitment to the farmers' welfare, the PM said Fazlul Huq was among the first leaders to recognise the deep connection between politics and the agriculture-based economy of Bengal, adding he worked to ensure their interests and representation.
To mark the day, various socio-political and cultural organisations have taken elaborate programmes, including placing wreaths and offering special prayers at the leader's grave, holding milad mahfils, and arranging discussions.
END/BSS/ASA
