Staff Correspondent: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed deep grief over the death of the National Professor, Rafiqul Islam. She expressed deep sympathy to the bereaved family.

In a condolence message on Tuesday (November 30) evening, Sheikh Hasina prayed for the forgiveness of the soul of the deceased.

In her condolence message, she said, "The histories written by these eyewitnesses who took an active part in the language movement and the great liberation war are invaluable resources for Bengali literature. Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam's contribution is unique in Nazrul's research. The literary work of this eminent writer and researcher will always inspire the Bengali nation in the spirit of liberation war and patriotism. He cherished and nurtured the ideals of the Father of the Nation in his heart and carried out the activities efficiently to make the various events of Mujib Year a success. He will live to be a shining star in Bengali literature and research."

The Prime Minister said, “I lost my teacher, elder and guardian in his death. The encouragement and motivation of my dear teacher on various nationally important issues have given me the courage and strength to move forward."

Nazrul researcher Professor Rafiqul Islam died at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka at 2.30 pm on Tuesday.

Rafiqul Islam is an Ekushey Padak and Swadhinata Padak eminent writer, eminent Nazrul researcher, President of Bangla Academy, National Professor and Chairman of the National Implementation Committee to celebrate the birth centenary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.