National Martyred Army Day Country to honour 57 officers today
Staff Reporter :
The nation will observe ‘National Martyred Army Day’ today to remember the army officers who were brutally killed in the Pilkhana carnage nearly 16 years ago.
On February 25 and 26, 2009, rogue soldiers of the then-BDR (now BGB) launched a brutal attack on their headquarters in Pilkhana, killing 57 army officers, including Director General (DG) Major General Shakil Ahmed. The horrific incident shocked and devastated the entire nation.
The interim government issued a circular officially declaring February 25 as ‘National Martyred Army Day,’ marking the first official observance of this day in the country’s history.
Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman stated to the media, “The Pilkhana massacre was part of an international conspiracy aimed at maintaining the Awami League’s power and asserting dominance over Bangladesh.”
He continued, “This was not a simple rebellion but a premeditated massacre.
Through this heinous act, we lost the brave sons of our nation, striking at the very core of Bangladesh’s sovereignty.
The then Awami League-led government created chaos by orchestrating the killing of 57 army officers, pushing Bangladesh toward instability.”
He also mentioned, “There are widespread allegations that members of the Awami League, Chhatra League, and Juba League participated in the gruesome killings while disguised in BDR uniforms.
Many of the masterminds behind the Pilkhana massacre remain at large, but steps have already been taken to bring them to justice.”
To honour the martyred army officers and commemorate their sacrifice, the interim government has initiated the first official observance of this solemn day.