Dhaka, Dec. 20 -- BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday expressed deep shock over the death of AK Khandker Bir Uttam, a key hero of the Bangladesh Liberation War and former planning minister.

In a condolence message, Fakhrul said, "I deeply sympathise with the bereaved family of AK Khandker over his demise."

He recalled that late AK Khandker, who served as Deputy Chief of Staff of the Liberation Forces, was the first Chief of the Bangladesh Air Force and played a brave and heroic role during the Liberation War of 1971.

For his exceptional contribution to the war, Fakhrul said AK Khandker was awarded the 'Bir Uttam' title and the Independence Award in 2011.

"He will always be remembered by the nation for his out...