Parag Kumar Das – The Fearless Journalist And Human Rights Activist Of Assam

Born on 24 February 1961 in Shillong, Parag Kumar Das completed his schooling in Guwahati and went on to graduate from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, before earning his master’s degree in Economics from the Delhi School of Economics. A brilliant student and thinker, he initially joined Punjab National Bank and later served as General Manager at the Guwahati Stock Exchange before dedicating his life to journalism and activism.

Das’s journalism career began in the late 1980s with publications like Prantik and The Sentinel. In 1989, he founded Boodhbar, a bold Assamese weekly known for its critical and fearless reporting. He also launched Agaan in 1994, another publication that reflected his vision for an independent and just Assam. His editorials often spoke against corruption, social inequality, and human rights abuses, earning him admiration among readers and fear among the powerful.

In 1995, Parag Kumar Das became the Executive Editor of Asomiya Pratidin, one of Assam’s leading Assamese dailies. Under his leadership, the newspaper became a symbol of resistance, giving voice to the oppressed and marginalized. He was also instrumental in shaping public debate on issues of ethnic identity, insurgency, and governance in Assam.

Beyond journalism, Parag Kumar Das was deeply involved in human rights advocacy. As the founder and leader of Manab Adhikar Sangram Samiti (MASS), he fought tirelessly to document cases of enforced disappearances, custodial deaths, and illegal detentions in Assam. His commitment to truth made him a target of political and militant groups alike.

Tragically, on 17 May 1996, Parag Kumar Das was assassinated in broad daylight in Chandmari, Guwahati, while returning from his son’s school. The killing shocked the entire state and drew condemnation from human rights organizations worldwide, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. Despite the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) taking up the case, the trial failed to deliver justice, and the main accused was acquitted in 2009 due to lack of evidence.

Following his death, the Parag Kumar Das Memorial Trust was established to honor his legacy. The trust organizes debates, memorial lectures, and awareness programs to inspire young minds and promote the values he stood for—truth, courage, and human dignity. His books, including Rastradrohir Dinlipi, Swadhinataar Prostab, and Nisiddha Kalam Aru Annyanya, continue to influence generations of readers and activists.

Today, Parag Kumar Das remains a symbol of fearless journalism in Assam. His writings and ideals remind us that journalism is not just a profession but a moral duty to question injustice and speak truth to power. His life’s work continues to inspire human rights defenders across India.

Quick Info of Parag Kumar Das

FAQs on Parag Kumar Das

1. Who was Parag Kumar Das?
   Parag Kumar Das was a prominent Assamese journalist, editor, and human rights activist known for his fearless reporting and advocacy in Assam.

2. When and where was Parag Kumar Das born?
   He was born on 24 February 1961 in Shillong, Meghalaya.

3. What was Parag Kumar Das known for?
   He was known for his bold journalism, leadership in MASS, and unwavering stand for human rights in Assam.

4. Which newspaper did Parag Kumar Das work for?
   He served as the Executive Editor of Asomiya Pratidin, one of Assam’s most popular Assamese dailies.

5. What is MASS in Assam?
   MASS stands for Manab Adhikar Sangram Samiti, a human rights organization founded by Parag Kumar Das.

6. How did Parag Kumar Das die?
   He was assassinated on 17 May 1996 in Guwahati by armed assailants linked to surrendered militants.

7. What were the key books written by Parag Kumar Das?
   Some of his notable books include Rastradrohir Dinlipi, Swadhinataar Prostab, and Nisiddha Kalam Aru Annyanya.

8. What was the role of Parag Kumar Das in Assamese media?
   He transformed Assamese journalism by introducing fearless reporting and addressing issues of justice and human rights.

9. What is the Parag Kumar Das Memorial Trust?
   It’s a foundation established to honor his memory through debates, lectures, and awareness programs.

10. Why is Parag Kumar Das still remembered today?
    He remains a symbol of courage, truth, and journalistic integrity in Assam and beyond.