Leader of the Opposition in Parliament and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina expressed her deep shock at the death of Santosh Gupta who was a senior assistant editor of the daily Sangbad.

Paying homage to the eminent journalist, Hasina said he had inspired the people through his writings at times of national transition and difficult days of the country.

An icon of self-sacrifice, honesty and patriotism, Santosh Gupta made significant contribution to all democratic movements including the War of Liberation in 1971, said Hasina in her message of condolence.

His death has created a vacuum in objective journalism, she added.

Hasina also prayed for the salvation of the departed soul and conveyed her sympathy to the members of the bereaved family.

Bangladesh Communist Party, in a press release, said the nation will always remember the noted journalist for his progressive role in all important movements.

Members of the National Press Club have condoled the death of Santosh Gupta and expressed sympathy for bereaved family members.

Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalist President Iqbal Sobahan Chowdhury, Secretary General Manjurul Ahsan Bulbul and Dhaka Union of Journalist President Altaf Mahmud and General Secretary Shah Alamgir, in a joint statement, said the death of Santosh Gupta is an irreparable loss for the nation.

Left-leaning 11 Party, Gono Forum, Sammilito Sangskritik Jote, Bangladesh Udichi Shilpi Gosthi, Bangabandhu Society and Media for Human Rights Environment and Development (MHED) also condoled the death of Santosh Gupta.