Toufique Khalidi's contribution to online journalism will be long remembered: Hifazat-e Islam

Hifazat-e Islam Bangladesh has paid tribute to bdnews24.com Editor-in-Chief Toufique Imrose Khalidi, lauding his part in bringing objective digital journalism to the country.

Its Secretary General Sajidur Rahman called the loss “deeply painful” in a media statement on Saturday.

He said Khalidi's role in launching online journalism in Bangladesh and helping it flourish deserved praise.

“His contribution to journalism will be remembered for a long time,” he said. “Over a long professional life, he made a significant mark with dedication, skill and professionalism.”

Offering sympathy to the bereaved family, colleagues and well-wishers, he prayed: “May Almighty Allah grant them the strength and patience to bear this grief.”

Seeking salvation for the departed soul, he said: “May Almighty Allah forgive all the faults of the deceased and shelter him in the shade of His mercy.”

Khalidi, who was on a private trip to London, fell gravely ill with a brain haemorrhage and was rushed to St Bartholomew's Hospital in the city.

Doctors declared him dead at 2:23pm local time on Friday. He was 59.