Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday stated that in a fascism-free Bangladesh, the populace now comprehends the real reasons behind the Pilkhana carnage. In a message marking Shaheed Sena Day (Martyred Soldiers’ Day), he mentioned that the trial over the Pilkhana killings is ongoing, indicating that there is no scope to comment in detail on a matter that is under trial.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of citizens understanding that activities against the country’s independence and sovereignty were involved in this massacre. He noted that after the killings, various attempts were made to mislead the public through falsehoods and misinformation. However, in a fascism-free Bangladesh, the true reasons behind the Pilkhana carnage are now apparent to the people.
The Prime Minister paid homage to the 57 army officers and 17 others who were killed in the tragic incident on February 25, 2009, at the Pilkhana BDR headquarters. He remarked that the day was not observed with the due importance it deserved in the years following the incident. However, since 2024, after the country became free from fascism, February 25 has been commemorated as Shaheed Sena Day.
On the occasion, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman prayed for the eternal peace of the departed souls and expressed deep sympathy for the bereaved families. He described the armed forces as a symbol of the honor, bravery, and pride of an independent nation and called for a renewed commitment to prevent any conspiracy against the armed forces in the future. He urged all citizens to remain united against any conspiracy against the country and its people, reinforcing the resolve on Shaheed Sena Day to stand united against any threats to national interests.