BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has described the late Badruddin Umar as a powerful symbol of the nation's independent conscience, paying tribute to the noted intellectual, writer, and leftist politician following his passing earlier on Sunday.In a statement issued Sunday, Tarique Rahman said that despite facing repeated state repression throughout his life, Badruddin Umar remained steadfast and uncompromising in his ideals.“No fear or threat could deter him from fulfilling his responsibilities. He never hesitated to speak out, even in the face of authoritarianism,” said Rahman. “He was truly a symbol of free thought in our nation.”Umar, aged 94, passed away around 10:00 a.m after falling ill and being taken to Bangladesh Specialized Hospital in Dhaka. He had been suffering from...