Dhaka: The Martyred Intellectuals Day was solemnly observed across Bangladesh, as the nation paid tribute to the intellectuals who were systematically killed by the Pakistan army and their collaborators during the Liberation War, just days before the country’s independence. This day serves as a stark reminder of the massacre aimed at crippling the nascent nation intellectually.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, national programs were organized to mark the day with due respect. Various political and socio-cultural organizations also arranged commemorative events. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus paid homage by placing a wreath at the Martyred Intellectuals Memorial in Mirpur, followed by a moment of silence in respect to the martyrs. A state salute by the Bangladesh Armed Forces and the playing of the last post added to the solemnity of the occasion.
President Mohammed Shahabuddin also paid his respects at the memorial early in the morning. After the formal tributes by the nation’s leaders, the memorial was opened to the public, allowing people from all walks of life to pay their respects.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, joined in the tributes. Alamgir expressed concern over recent acts of violence, describing them as attempts to hinder the country’s democratic progress. He reaffirmed BNP’s commitment to upholding the nation’s independence, sovereignty, and democracy.
Nahid Islam of the National Citizen Party (NCP) highlighted the historical significance of the day, noting the deliberate targeting of intellectuals in 1971 to destabilize Bangladesh. He called for justice against ongoing targeted killings and emphasized the need for national unity.
Numerous political parties, including Gano Forum, Communist Party of Bangladesh, and others, participated in the tributes. Various social, cultural, and professional organizations also commemorated the day by placing wreaths at memorial sites.
The observance extended beyond the capital, with districts such as Rangpur, Rajshahi, Narail, Chuadanga, Rangamati, and Natore holding their own commemorative events. These included wreath-laying ceremonies, discussions, and special prayers for the martyrs’ souls and the country’s prosperity.
In Rangpur, officials and citizens paid homage at the Liberation War Memorial, while Rajshahi saw a series of events, including public gatherings and candlelight vigils. Narail’s ceremonies were led by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Mohammad Abdul Salam, emphasizing the intellectuals’ contributions and sacrifices.
The day was marked with similar solemnity in other districts, including Cumilla, Barishal, and Kurigram, reflecting the nation’s collective remembrance and respect for the martyred intellectuals.