Kolkata, 16 March (H.S.): Tariqul Islam Bhuiyan, also known as Tariq Chayon, has recently taken charge as the First Secretary (Press) at the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata. The position had remained vacant for a few months following political changes in Bangladesh. A former journalist, Tariq believes that India-Bangladesh relations will continue to develop positively.

In an exclusive conversation at his residence on Saturday, he shared insights into his background. Tariq completed his M.A. in Education and Research from Dhaka University in 2010. Recalling his early days, he said, “I started writing during my student life in Cumilla. In 2012, I formally entered journalism, working first at Janakantha, then from 2013 to 2016 at Bangla Vision. Later, I spent two years at the English edition of Kaler Kantho and five more years at Manab Zamin.”

Born in Cumilla, Tariq has often been a subject of political discussions in Bangladesh. He has been considered a strong critic of the Awami League and a close associate of Dr. Mohammad Yunus, the chief advisor of the former caretaker government. Addressing this perception, he clarified, “During my university days, I was affiliated with BNP’s student wing. However, after entering journalism, I had no political connections.”

Tariq has accompanied Dr. Yunus on several foreign trips. Explaining his association, he stated, “I wasn’t with him only when he was in power. In fact, when Dr. Yunus was facing severe criticism in 2023, I accompanied him to Malaysia, and again in 2024, I traveled with him to the Philippines. I have also conducted multiple interviews with him.”

Speaking about India-Bangladesh relations, Tariq echoed Dr. Yunus’s views, saying, “India is our largest neighboring country. The relations between the two nations are strong and will remain so. The importance of strengthening these ties cannot be overlooked.” He expressed optimism that bilateral relations would continue to progress positively.

Notably, Tariq Chayon’s wife, Ishrat Tariq, has been appointed as an Assistant Attorney General by the Bangladesh government.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh