Amar Ekushey today
Staff Reporter :
The nation is set to pay homage to the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement today (Friday) as part of Amar Ekushey observances, a day that remains deeply embedded in Bangladesh’s history and national identity.
From the early hours of the day, people across the country will gather at Shaheed Minars, placing floral wreaths in solemn remembrance of those who sacrificed their lives to establish Bangla as a state language.
The official tributes will begin one minute past midnight, with President Mohammed Shahabuddin, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, senior government officials, and foreign diplomats visiting the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka.
Stringent security measures have been put in place to ensure a smooth observance of the occasion.
Ahead of the day, students of Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts were seen decorating the Central Shaheed Minar compound with intricate floral designs.
This year, the monument has been adorned with Bangla letters against the backdrop of a rising sun, symbolizing the enduring significance of Shaheed Dibas, which has also been recognized globally as International Mother Language Day since 2000.
On this day in 1952, the then Pakistani rulers banned protests against their decision to impose Urdu as the sole state language, ignoring the fact that the majority of the population spoke Bangla. In defiance, students took to the streets in Dhaka, where police opened fire on a procession, killing Salam, Jabbar, Rafiq, Barkat, and others.
Their sacrifice became a pivotal moment in the struggle for linguistic and cultural rights, fueling the movements that eventually led to the Six-Point Movement of 1966, the Mass Uprising of 1969, and the Liberation War of 1971.
Security and Traffic Arrangements The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has issued a detailed route plan for visitors heading to the Central Shaheed Minar and Azimpur Graveyard to ensure smooth movement. Entry points: Palashi crossing, Nilkhet crossing, and Jagannath Hall crossing. Exit points: Ramna crossing and Doyel Chattwar.
Traffic diversions: Shahbagh, Nilkhet, Shahidullah Hall, Chankarpool, Palashi, and Bakshibazar crossings.
Additionally, the Dhaka University (DU) administration has imposed movement restrictions on campus from 5:00 PM on Thursday, with heightened security after 8:00 PM.
Residents within the campus have been advised to remain indoors after that time, except in emergencies with valid security passes.
Commemorations and Public Engagements In recognition of International Mother Language Day, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus unveiled a commemorative postage stamp, an inaugural envelope, and a seal on Wednesday.
Various political parties, socio-cultural and professional organizations, and educational institutions have lined up events to mark the day, highlighting the lasting impact of the Language Movement.
The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has also taken special measures, including ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply in key areas to facilitate public participation.