Ittefaq – A Beacon of Seven Decades: The Conscience of a Nation and a Witness to Time

Md. Kamal Uddin    |    ০৯:৫৭ পিএম, ২০২৫-১২-২৩

Md. Kamal Uddin
When the history of Bangladesh’s newspaper journalism is spoken of, one name is inevitably mentioned with profound respect—The Daily Ittefaq. It is not merely a newspaper; it is an era, a movement, and the living autobiography of a nation. Through the rise and fall of the state, through the tears and triumphs of the people, their dreams and struggles, Ittefaq has stood as an unwavering companion firm on the path of truth and fearless against injustice. Founded on 24 December 1953 by Tofazzal Hossain Manik Mia, Ittefaq has now traversed more than seven decades of history. On 24 December 2025, the newspaper will step into its 73rd year—a milestone that represents not just longevity, but wisdom, responsibility, and a proud legacy borne with dignity. Manik Mia: Not Just an Editor, but a Philosophy Tofazzal Hossain Manik Mia was far more than an editor; he was a vision. He understood that journalism is not confined to printed pages it is about people’s rights, freedom of thought, and the power to inspire change. During the Pakistan era, when the press was shackled by state intimidation, Ittefaq emerged as the voice of the oppressed and the marginalized. From the Language Movement to the Six-Point Movement, from the Mass Uprising to the Liberation War, Ittefaq was never a silent observer. It was an active participant in history. Through Manik Mia’s fearless pen, the injustices of power, political discrimination, and the anguish of a disenfranchised population were brought to light. He proved that truth demands courage and that courage is what transforms a newspaper into the conscience of a nation.
An Indispensable Role in the Struggle for Independence The history of Bangladesh’s independence cannot be written without Ittefaq. During the Liberation War, the newspaper took a resolute stand in favor of freedom—a position that was dangerous, risky, yet absolutely essential. In those dark times, Ittefaq did not conceal the truth; it revealed it, even at the risk of life and liberty. After independence, during the arduous process of nation-building, Ittefaq became a mirror of the new Bangladesh. In struggles for democracy, movements against autocracy, and battles for voting rights and freedom of expression, Ittefaq consistently remained at the forefront. It highlighted governmental achievements where due, and openly criticized failures and corruption—because true journalism is born of accountability to truth. Times Have Changed, Principles Have Not Times change. Technology evolves. Readers’ habits transform. But Ittefaq has never abandoned its core principles. Today, news is no longer confined to printed pages—it flows through digital platforms, online editions, and social media in real time. Many have lost direction in this rapid current, but Ittefaq has preserved its moral compass. By blending modern technology with courageous and responsible journalism, Ittefaq has set a new benchmark. Accuracy of information, balance of opinion, and uncompromising ethics these three pillars continue to earn the trust of readers. For the younger generation, it is a source of verified truth; for older readers, it remains a living historical document. The 73rd Anniversary: Celebration, Remembrance, and Commitment
24 December 2025 marks the 73rd anniversary of The Daily Ittefaq. This is not merely a birthday; it is a significant milestone in the nation’s journey. The commemorative event at the Ittefaq Bureau Office, Life Insurance Building, Jubilee Road, Chattogram, symbolizes a meeting point of history and the present. On this occasion, we respectfully remember the countless “soldiers of the pen” who embraced journalism not merely as a profession, but as a mission. Their words became shelter for the oppressed and resistance against tyranny. Because of their contributions, Ittefaq continues to stand tall. The event will be attended by distinguished figures from journalism and society. Invitation by: Salahuddin Md. Reza, Bureau Chief, Chattogram Office; President, Chattogram Press Club Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: Life Insurance Building, 4 Jubilee Road, Chattogram Manik Mia’s Ideals: A Guiding Light for the Future The path shown by Manik Mia is more relevant today than ever before. In an age where truth is often buried beneath an avalanche of misinformation, journalism must be both fearless and responsible. Ittefaq continues to uphold that ideal. Looking ahead, Ittefaq remains committed to defending free media, freedom of expression, and the rights of the people. Its pledge is to open new horizons of courageous journalism—rooted firmly in truth and justice. Tribute and Greetings: Voices of Companionship In the history of Bangladesh’s journalism, the name spoken first is The Daily Ittefaq. For over seven decades, it has reflected the hopes and aspirations of the nation and stood as a fearless witness to democracy, independence, and social transformation.
On behalf of Daily Bhorer Awaj and The Daily Banner, we extend heartfelt greetings and deep respect on the 72nd anniversary of Ittefaq. From the Language Movement to the Liberation War, from democratic struggles to modern statecraft—Ittefaq has always stood firm and unafraid.
Maintaining journalistic excellence and neutrality is never easy. Yet Ittefaq has proven that unwavering commitment to truth can make a newspaper a guiding light for a nation.
Our Pledge Inspired by the standards set by Ittefaq, the Shada Kalo Multimedia News House and its affiliated platforms Chattrol Chitra, Daily Tourist, Shomoyer Alo, Kotha TV, Daily Bhorer Awaj, and The Daily Banner pledge to move forward guided by the same ideals. On the path of truth and justice, for the welfare of the nation, we remain ever prepared. We wish The Daily Ittefaq a long and luminous life. You continue to speak the truth and we shall remain by your side as witnesses to that truth. Ittefaq is not just a newspaper. It is a heritage. A chapter of national pride. A living history. As it moves from seven decades toward eight, our responsibility deepens to ensure that this light never fades. Armed with the love, trust, and support of its readers, Ittefaq will continue its journey as a fearless, principled, and unwavering traveler on the path of truth.