National Martyred Army Day observed in memory of 2009 Pilkhana massacre

National Martyred Army Day will be observed on Wednesday to pay tribute to the martyrs of the 2009 Pilkhana massacre.

On the eve of the day, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued a message praying for the eternal peace of the victims and expressing deep sympathy for their bereaved families.

He recalled that on February 25, 2009, a brutal massacre took place at the then Bangladesh Rifles (BDR), now Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), headquarters in Pilkhana. A total of 74 people were killed, including 57 army officers.

The prime minister said the day had not been observed with due importance after 2009. However, since 2024, following what he described as the country’s liberation from fascism, February 25 has been formally observed as Martyred Army Day.

Referring to the ongoing trial, he said the matter remains sub judice and therefore limits detailed public comment. Still, he stressed that the massacre involved activities that threatened the country’s independence and sovereignty.

He also noted that after the incident, efforts were made to mislead the public through false narratives and misinformation. “In a fascism-free Bangladesh, the real causes behind the Pilkhana killings are now understood by the people,” he said.

Describing the armed forces as a symbol of honour, bravery, and national pride, the prime minister called for renewed unity.

“Today, we must pledge that no one will ever again be allowed to conspire against our armed forces. Let Martyred Army Day remind us to stand united against any action that goes against the interests of the country and its people,” he added.