Government cancels Eid, Independence Day illuminations
The government has decided not to have any decorative lighting anywhere in the country for Independence Day and National Day this year in order to reduce fuel consumption due to the ongoing war situation in the Middle East.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday after a law and order meeting at the Secretariat regarding Eid al-Fitr and the Independence and National Days, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said, “Traditionally, we illuminate buildings and public spaces to celebrate Independence and National Day.
However, this year we have made an important decision. Given the current situation, to prevent a national fuel crisis and to promote conservation, we have decided that no decorative lighting will be used nationwide for these events.”
The Minister added that Genocide Day, commemorating the horrific killings initiated by the Pakistani forces on the night of 25 March 1971 to suppress the pro-liberation movement of Bengalis, will be observed this year with due solemnity and respect for the martyrs.
Regarding Independence Day celebrations, he said:
“The President, Prime Minister, cabinet members, opposition leaders, and other social and political organisations will lay wreaths at the Savar National Memorial.
Measures to ensure everyone’s security and facilitate smooth movement have been discussed and necessary decisions taken.”
On a question about paying wages and allowances to garment workers before Eid, Salahuddin Ahmed said:
“Leaders from BGMEA and BKMEA attended the meeting and were very sincere. They hope to complete all wage and allowance payments before Eid.
The government and the banking sector will cooperate. If there are any remaining issues, they have been asked to notify us in advance.”
Regarding mob violence (MoB), the Home Minister said:
“Mob incidents are one thing, and other crimes are another. They should not be conflated.
In Narsingdi, a girl was raped and murdered. Investigation revealed that her stepfather was involved.
Legal action has been taken against all those involved in the rape. All suspects were arrested within 48 hours, and they have confessed.
“I am aware of a few other cases, which we are addressing. Not all incidents can be compared to mob violence. Some are isolated. We are serious about mob violence, and the mob culture will be eliminated in Bangladesh.”
