Language hero Usuya no more

Usuya Howlader, a Language Movement veteran and founder president of Kalapara Rakhine Samaj Kalyan Samity, died in his Kalapara residence of Patuakhali on Wednesday, aged 83.

Usuya, who left behind his wife, a son and two daughters, was buried in Kalapara yesterday.

He actively participated in the 1952 Language Movement when he was a class X student of Barisal's Baptist Mission School, the family said.

Usuya was also involved with Chhatra Union. He contested the national election from National Awami Party from Kalapara-Amtali area in 1970.

He played a vital role in preserving the rights of the Rakhine community.