LAHORE, Nov 20: Shafqat Tanvir Mirza, renowned journalist, political commentator and proponent of Punjabi language died of lung cancer here on Tuesday morning at the age of 80.

He was laid to rest in the evening in the DHA graveyard. Members of his family and a large number of friends, journalists and admirers attended the funeral prayers held at the main DHA Mosque.

Also a trade unionist, he espoused the cause of freedom of the press.

Mr Mirza contracted lung cancer this year and spent his last days in a private hospital.  His Soyem will be held on Wednesday morning at his residence, 199/1-J, DHA.

Born in 1932, Mr Mirza was affectionately known by his acronym STM.

He leaves behind his wife, a daughter and a large number of admirers of his writings in West and East Punjab.

STM was awarded the Pride of Performance in 2006 for his services to the Punjabi language and more than 60 years of contribution to journalism. He joined journalism in 1949. He had been writing for Dawn for the past 17 years.—Staff Reporter

Obituary on inside pages