PM Says Anti-Sovereignty Forces Were Active Behind Pilkhana Massacre
He said certain groups had attempted to mislead the public by spreading false narratives and disinformation in the aftermath of the killings.
Tarique Rahman has alleged that anti-sovereignty and anti-independence forces were active behind the 2009 Pilkhana massacre, describing the killings as a premeditated conspiracy against the state.
Addressing a commemorative programme on Wednesday marking Jatiya Shaheed Sena Day (National Martyred Soldiers’ Day), the prime minister said the violence at the then headquarters of the Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) was not an isolated event, but part of a broader plot to destabilise the country.
He said that in a “fascism-free Bangladesh,” people now better understand the background to the Pilkhana killings.
Recalling the events of 2009, Tarique noted that the massacre occurred at the BDR headquarters in Pilkhana, where 57 army officers were among the 74 people killed. He observed that the day had not been commemorated with due importance in the years following the tragedy, but since 2024 the government has officially observed it as ‘Martyred Army Day’.
On the occasion, he sought forgiveness for the martyrs and expressed sympathy for their bereaved families.
The prime minister said the trial over the Pilkhana killings is still ongoing and therefore refrained from making detailed comments on a matter currently before the court.
He also alleged that certain groups attempted to mislead the public in the aftermath of the killings by spreading false narratives and disinformation.
Emphasising that the armed forces symbolise the honour, bravery and pride of an independent nation, he called on citizens to renew their commitment to thwart any future conspiracy against them.
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