They said he had inspired the people through his writings at times of national transition and difficult days of the country.

The condolence meeting was organised by the daily Sangbad at the National Press Club in the city.

Prothom Alo Editor Motiur Rahman said Santosh Gupta inspired the people in all progressive movements including the libertarian war in 1971.

He spent 11 years in jail for his writing against imperialism, fundamentalism and autocracy, said Motiur Rahman.

Sangbad Editor Bazlur Rahman said the nation will always remember the noted journalist for his progressive role in all democratic movements.

In the death of Santosh Gupta, a vacuum has been created in the field of journalism

that cannot be fulfilled, he added.

Jugantor Editor Golam Sorwar said Santosh Gupta pursued honest journalism and his criticism was very constructive.

Santosh Gupta proved that journalism is one of the most effective ways to serve the nation, said Justice Quazi Obaidul Huq.

National Press Club President Reaz Uddin Ahmed said the works of the Santosh Gupta would inspire the new generation in the field of journalism.

Journalists Foyez Ahamed said Santosh Gupta translated English sonnets and our Bangla literature could be rich if the translations were preserved properly.

The Bangladesh Observer Editor Iqbal Sobahan Chowdhury, Prof Anisur Rahman, Laila Rahman, Mahmudul Salim, Manjurul Ahasan Bulbul, Santosh's son Prieotosh Gupta and Kashem Humayn also spoke.

At the beginning of the meeting, a one-minute silence was observed for the salvation of the departed soul.