Bangladesh commemorates its 55th Independence Day on Wednesday

Bangladesh marks its 55th Independence Day on Wednesday, honoring the sacrifices of its freedom fighters with solemn tributes, cultural programs, and political engagements.

This year’s celebrations hold special significance as the interim government, led by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, oversees the official observances. Dr. Yunus, alongside senior government officials and foreign dignitaries, will lead the Independence Day proceedings at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, where wreaths will be laid in remembrance of those who fought for the nation’s liberation.

According to the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs, the day will commence with a 31-gun salute at dawn in Dhaka and across the country. At sunrise, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus will place wreaths at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar. They will be followed by the Liberation War Affairs Adviser, family members of Birshreshtho recipients, injured war veterans, and other freedom fighters, who will also pay their respects. Foreign diplomats, representatives of political and social organizations, and the general public will join in commemorating the martyrs.

Wreath-laying ceremonies will also take place at district and upazila-level memorials. Across all divisions, districts, and upazilas, the national flag will be hoisted, the national anthem performed, and students from educational institutions will participate in assemblies and parades. Government, semi-government, autonomous, and private buildings will raise the national flag at sunrise.

In remembrance of the 1971 Genocide, major buildings and structures in Dhaka will be illuminated, except on Tuesday night. Key roads and intersections in Dhaka and other cities will be adorned with national flags and banners. The president and the chief adviser have issued special messages to the nation to mark the occasion.

Preparations at the National Martyrs’ Memorial

The 108-hectare National Martyrs’ Memorial has undergone extensive renovations, including landscaping, fresh coats of paint, and decorative lighting. Security measures have been tightened, with CCTV cameras installed across the premises. Public access to the memorial has been restricted since March 16 and will reopen after the official ceremonies on Wednesday.

Mizanur Rahman, assistant engineer of the Savar Public Works Department, stated: “For the Great Independence Day celebrations, the entire memorial premises have been cleaned and decorated with flowers. All activities, including painting, installation of CCTV cameras, lighting, and lake renovations, have been completed.” Over a hundred workers have been involved in these efforts over the past month and a half.

Beyond official ceremonies, the capital and other major cities will host cultural programs, parades, and discussions. Schools, universities, and local organizations have planned events highlighting the nation’s history, while special prayers will be held in mosques, temples, and churches. Television channels and newspapers will feature special programs and supplements dedicated to the Liberation War, ensuring the new generation remains connected to the nation’s roots.

Political Parties’ Independence Day Programs

The BNP has outlined a 10-day program marking Independence Day, starting from March 16 and culminating with major events on Wednesday. BNP leaders and activists will pay tribute to the martyrs by placing wreaths at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar at 7 AM, followed by a visit to the grave of party founder Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Banglanagar. A special prayer session will be held in his memory. On Thursday, the Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal, BNP’s freedom fighters’ wing, will organize a mass gathering of war veterans.

The ousted Awami League has announced an elaborate program, including wreath-laying at the National Martyrs’ Memorial, Bangabandhu Bhaban of Dhanmondi 32, and Tungipara. Awami League leaders, currently in exile following their fall on August 5, have scheduled a virtual discussion to mark the occasion.

Jamaat-e-Islami has also announced its own set of programs, focusing on national unity and political reform. Party Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman reaffirmed Jamaat’s commitment to Bangladesh’s sovereignty, stating: “There will be no compromise on the country’s independence and sovereignty. National unity is crucial for building a just and prosperous nation.” Jamaat has arranged workers’ conferences and public meetings nationwide, engaging citizens in discussions on electoral reforms and the country’s future.

Enhanced Security Measures

To ensure security during the celebrations, approximately 4,000 police officers will be deployed in and around Savar. The Dhaka-Aricha Highway, from Aminbazar to Gonoshasthaya Kendra, has been divided into 12 sectors, each monitored by assigned police personnel. Authorities have advised transport operators to avoid this stretch between 5:30 AM and 7:30 AM on March 26, recommending alternative routes.

To accommodate large-scale celebrations, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has announced road closures and traffic restrictions:

• Vehicular movement will be closed from Sergeant Ahad Police Box (Gulistan) to Ittefaq Intersection.
• Entry will be restricted in the Dilkusha Commercial Area and Rajuk Crossing (DIT Road).
• No vehicles will be allowed from the north end of Park Road to Ittefaq Intersection.
• Alternative routes are recommended via Dainik Bangla, UBL, and Press Club.
• No commercial vehicles will be permitted during celebration hours in Dainik Bangla to Rajuk.

The DMP has urged residents to plan their routes accordingly to avoid congestion.

As Bangladesh unites in celebration, this Independence Day serves as a powerful reminder of the nation’s resilience, progress, and collective responsibility to uphold the values of freedom and democracy.