Belal Mohammad, one of the founders of Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra during the 1971 Liberation War, died early Tuesday. He was 77.
The poet died at the intensive care unit of Apollo Hospitals, Dhaka at 5am, said the duty manager of the hospital.
He was admitted to the hospital on Monday evening after he complained of discomfort.
Born in Swandip upazila of Chittagong in 1936, Belal had long been suffering from old age complications.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed her deep shock at the death of the poet.
In a condolence message, the prime minister recalled his invaluable contribution to the Liberation War and said that in his death, the country has lost a true patriot who always loved democracy and democratic system.
She said the country would forever remember his contribution to the Liberation War, especially his active role in forming the Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra that always inspired the freedom fighters during the Liberation War.
In this connection, she said Belal Mohammad received the Independence Award 2010 for his outstanding contribution to the Liberation War.
Sheikh Hasina said that after the independence, Belal engaged himself in the nation-building activities and he was always found in the frontline of all democratic movements of the country.
"His death is an irreparable loss to the nation," she added.
The prime minister prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed her deep sympathy to the bereaved family.
President Abdul Hamid also expressed deep shock at the death of Belal Mohammad.
In his message of condolence, Abdul Hamid recalled the contribution of the deceased in organising Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra at the beginning of the Liberation War.
He said: "Through his [Belal's] death, the country lost a great freedom fighter."
The president conveyed his deep sympathy to the bereaved family members of Belal Mohammad and prayed for the salvation of the departed soul.