During the era of Pakistan, the intellectual debates between Ittefaq’s founding editor Tofazzal Hossain Manik Miah and Pakistan Times editor Z.A. Suleri were widely discussed and appreciated by the educated readership.
These two prominent editors had distinctly different philosophies of journalism, which were clearly reflected in their writing and professional conduct.
Manik Miah did not view journalism merely as a profession. Rather, he used it as a tool for achieving political goals in the interest of the nation and its people. He left a government job to enter journalism—specifically to engage in political discourse.
Although he never directly participated in active politics, he was firm enough in his principles to reject an offer to become the Information Minister without hesitation. His approach to journalism was that of a statesman—fearlessly using his pen to uphold the rights of the people and resist oppression.
One of his most well-known columns was titled "Rajnaitik Moncho" (The Political Stage), which he wrote under the pseudonym "Mosafir" in keeping with the conventions of that time. In truth, this column became the voice of East Pakistan’s people, and Manik Miah was its fearless narrator.
He remained resolute in speaking the truth, even while enduring imprisonment and oppression. His primary objective in journalism was to awaken Bengali nationalism and advocate for their rightful claims. He believed journalism was not just about reporting facts—it was a powerful tool for protesting injustice.
In contrast, Z.A. Suleri viewed journalism as a career and used it in support of the military and conservative regimes of the time. Manik Miah, on the other hand, rightly used journalism as a weapon for broader political and social change. For him, public rights and freedoms mattered far more than personal gain or job security.
In reality, Manik Miah lived by certain deep convictions. He was always prepared to dedicate his life for those beliefs. While many politicians sacrifice for power and position, Manik Miah sought neither. Most of his life was spent in intellectual pursuits and concern for the welfare of ordinary people.
His life teaches us that every person must stand by their principles, even if it requires sacrifice. He was deeply committed to patriotism, democracy, a just society, individual liberty, and freedom of expression—values he upheld until his final days.
He sought to unite the nation in the cause of independence. He recognized that although Pakistan gained freedom from British colonial rule, the necessary unity to build a nation was eroded due to inequality and division between its two wings.
The political leadership lacked the foresight and wisdom needed for national unity. Instead of unity, the majority population of East Pakistan was subjected to exploitation and authoritarian rule. Since 1947, he saw the beginning of a conspiracy to strip the masses of their rights—and he aimed to expose it.
Though he sometimes differed from contemporary politicians in thought, he believed that true fulfillment in life came through service to people. One may or may not agree with all his convictions, but his sincerity and commitment to those beliefs were beyond question.
We believe that Manik Miah’s writing played a vital role in uniting the Bengali nation and inspiring them to fight for their rights. Even today, his ideals, philosophy, and principles remain deeply relevant. The need for fearless and uncompromising journalism—as exemplified by Manik Miah—is undeniable in our times.
On the occasion of the 56th death anniversary of this fearless editor, we remember Tofazzal Hossain Manik Miah with deep respect. We also pray for the eternal peace of his soul.
