This year marks 53 years of independence and the 72nd anniversary of the 1952 Language Movement. Today, Daily Ittefaq steps into its 72nd year—a remarkable coincidence of profound significance.
The blood-stained backdrop of the February Language Movement was still fresh; a turbulent time loomed with the upcoming elections for the East Pakistan Legislative Assembly.
It was during this critical juncture that Ittefaq emerged, first published on December 24, 1953. Over the past 71 years, braving countless storms, challenges, successes, and celebrations, Daily Ittefaq has entered its 72nd year.
The journey of Daily Ittefaq began with a political purpose, initially serving as the voice of a political party.
At its inception, it was intrinsically linked with Hussain Shaheed Suhrawardy, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and Tofazzal Hossain Manik Miah—three names bound by a common vision. Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani's contributions were also significant.
Soon after its launch, the newspaper became a fearless and uncompromising voice of rebellion, shaking the foundation of West Pakistan with its unwavering stance on the country's rights.
In the pre-independence era, this "newspaper" stood as a herald of nationalism, a steadfast opponent of Western exploitation, and a vanguard of the independence movement. Daily Ittefaq's explosive reports and Tofazzal Hossain Manik Miah's sharp and unwavering commitment to democracy for a sovereign state dealt a severe blow to the Muslim League government, leaving it in disarray.
In the iconic year of 1969, Ittefaq emerged as the champion of the mass uprising. It was the bugler of the Liberation War, a fortress of resistance. Against the hostile Pakistani rulers, Ittefaq's voice remained resolute, delivering its message to the people despite repression and threats.
Its role in guiding a directionless nation stands as a rare example not just in Bangladesh's history but also in the annals of global journalism. Ittefaq was more than just a daily newspaper; it was an institution that invigorated the spirit of democracy.
Post-independence, Ittefaq has stood firmly for the comprehensive development and progress of Bangladesh and its people, embodying a close-knit approach.
With impartial opinions, constructive criticism, unyielding courage, and uncompromising stances, Ittefaq has become the "voice of Bangladesh," the mouthpiece of the masses. With its illustrious legacy, Ittefaq has positioned itself on the highway of history, earning the status of the "fourth pillar" of the state.
Throughout its 72-year journey, Ittefaq has sought to capture the political, economic, historical, and cultural contexts of life. It has persistently delved into the nuances and elements of everyday life, presenting them within the broad framework of its pages.
By standing at opposing poles of reasoned debate, it has remained a voice of objective discourse, tirelessly constructing arguments.
Even in this era of social media's pervasive and often deceptive viral emotions, pseudo-empowerment, pseudo-anarchism, and the ever-evolving landscape of diverse publications and digital portals—the "metaverse" of our time—Ittefaq, at 72 years old, continues to dominate with its timeless and enduring youthful vigor.
Its ever-changing, aesthetically pleasing presentation, style, format, and language consistently meet the expectations of its readers.
As a result, it continues to captivate and inspire new generations of loyal readers and well-wishers, making the traditional yet modern and distinguished Daily Ittefaq a bridge between generations.
Happy Birthday to our beloved Ittefaq!
