Sunday, 5th April 2026
Sunday, 5th April 2026

Bangladesh

Nirmal Sen: Voice of the Oppressed and Champion of Social Justice

Khabor Wala Desk

Published: 3rd August 2025, 2:36 PM

Nirmal Sen: Voice of the Oppressed and Champion of Social Justice
Nirmal Sen, Photo: Collected

Today, 3 August, marks the birth anniversary of Nirmal Sen — a legendary journalist, trailblazing political activist, and courageous social thinker. He was not merely a chronicler of events but the very voice of the masses, a companion to working-class struggles, and a tireless voyager in the pursuit of a socialist dream.

Early Life and Political Awakening

Date of Birth 3 August 1930
Place of Birth Dighirpar village, Kotalipara, Gopalganj
Early Political Involvement Joined the Quit India movement during adolescence; later became a member of the secret revolutionary nationalist group, Anushilan Samiti during college life

 

From his youth, Nirmal Sen developed an anti-exploitation and progressive political consciousness, which would shape his lifelong activism.

Journalism Career and Commitment to the People

Nirmal Sen entered journalism in 1959, joining Daily Ittefaq. His career spanned several influential publications:

Newspaper Role/Contribution
Daily Ittefaq Beginning of journalistic journey
Daily Azad Senior journalist
Daily Pakistan Continued critical editorial work
Daily Bangla (Post-independence) Played a vital editorial role

 

His writing style was sharp, logical, and boldly advocated for the rights of the working class.
He wrote powerful columns while simultaneously being an outspoken voice in leftist politics.
As President of the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ), he fiercely defended journalistic integrity and press freedom, never compromising on principles.

Politics and Socialist Struggle

Nirmal Sen was not just a journalist — he was a committed socialist and political organiser.
He served as a key organiser and General Secretary of the Workers-Peasants Socialist Party (following Hasanul Haq Inu and Rashed Khan Menon). Whether on the streets, behind bars, or through his writings, he remained unwavering in his ideals.

Published Works

Nirmal Sen’s writings reflect deep political insight and social analysis. His notable works include:

Book Title Themes
Purbopokistan Theke Bangladesh Transition from East Pakistan to Bangladesh
Manush, Shomaj, Rastro Human beings, society, and the state
Berlin Theke Moscow Observations on global socialist movements
Swabhabik Mrityur Guarantee Chai Demand for dignity in death
Amar Jibone Ekattorer Juddho Personal experience of the 1971 Liberation War

 

These works stand as testaments to his political philosophy, global socialist vision, and firsthand experiences from the Liberation War.

Farewell and Legacy

Date of Passing 8 January 2013
Legacy A fearless voice for progress, equality, and journalistic integrity

 

Nirmal Sen’s death marked the end of a revolutionary era. Yet his life, struggle, and ideals continue to inspire the ongoing fight for:

  • Independent journalism
  • A society free of exploitation
  • The dignity of all people

Today, we remember Nirmal Sen with deep reverence — a man who never stopped fighting for human liberation.

Tribute to Nirmal Sen — your memory lives on in our struggle and our hearts.

Comments