Writer Zakir Talukder returns Bangla Academy Literary Award

Eminent writer Zakir Talukder has returned the Bangla Academy Literary Award he received in 2014, citing dissatisfaction with the institution's management.

The writer returned the prize money and honorary crest to the Bangla Academy through courier on Sunday, he confirmed to The Business Standard. 

"I have remained vocal against the undemocratic nature, arbitrariness, and bureaucracy within Bangla Academy. The institution has not conducted executive council elections for the past 25 years. They give no explanation as to their activities," he told TBS. 

The writer alleged that the Bangla Academy forms different sub-committees with people of their own choice.

Zakir believes that the quality of the academy's programmes, its activities and standard of the award – all have now dropped. 

"When the quality of an institution falls, the standard of the award also comes down. I don't find it logical to accept that award," he remarked. 

Zakir Talukder, hailing from Natore, is a medical professional. He obtained a post-graduate diploma in health economics and has held vital positions in private medical and research institutions.

So far, he has more than 24 literary works under his belt, including 'Musalmanmangal', ' Pitrigan', 'Kursinama', 'Kabi o Kamini', 'Chhayabastob', and 'Rajar Sepai'.