Dhaka:The nation is observing the National Revolution and Solidarity Day today, marking the 51st anniversary of the historic events that took place on November 7, 1975. The day has been declared a public holiday, with an elaborate program arranged by the government to commemorate the occasion.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, both President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have issued separate messages on the eve of the day. The national flag is being hoisted atop all government, semi-government, autonomous, private buildings, educational institutions, and Bangladesh missions abroad. Major roads and road islands have been adorned with national flags.
The day's program includes discussions at district and upazila levels, children's drawing competitions, and special broadcasts of programs related to November 7, 1975, on state-run and private television and radio channels. Cultural events are being organized by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, and the Armed Forces are arranging a colorful display at the Army Stadium in Dhaka.
Special prayers are being offered at mosques, temples, churches, pagodas, and other places of worship, seeking peace, prosperity, and progress for the nation. Improved diets are being served at hospitals, prisons, orphanages, and various care facilities. All children's parks are open free of charge, managed by city corporations and municipalities.
Educational institutions are hosting special discussions and essay competitions, while the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has arranged for the publication of special articles and supplements in national dailies. Documentary films are being screened at cinema halls and through mobile vans, and football matches are organized at district headquarters and upazilas.
A special commemorative discussion is taking place with families of martyred freedom fighters, war-wounded freedom fighters, and valiant freedom fighters. The Dhaka Elevated Expressway is toll-free for all vehicles from 6 am to 12 noon today.
The ruling BNP has launched a seven-day program from November 5 to 11 to observe the day, with national and party flags hoisted at the BNP central office and party offices across the country. A colorful rally will be held from the central office in Naya Paltan at 3 pm today, along with district and metropolitan-level rallies across the country. Discussions and other programs are also being arranged by BNP and its affiliated organizations throughout the week.