Today, 25 February, Bangladesh solemnly observed National Martyrs’ Day in honour of the military officers who lost their lives in the 2009 Pilkhana tragedy. On this significant day, President Md. Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarek Rahman visited the military cemetery in Banani, Dhaka, to pay their deepest respects.
At precisely 10:10 a.m., President Shahabuddin laid a floral wreath at the memorial dedicated to the fallen officers. Shortly thereafter, Prime Minister Tarek Rahman arrived to offer prayers and participate in a solemn ceremony. During the proceedings, a contingent of the armed forces conducted a ceremonial guard of honour, accompanied by the mournful notes of the bugle. Both the President and Prime Minister stood in respectful silence, commemorating the martyrs and praying for the salvation of their souls.
Following this, other high-ranking officials, including Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman, Navy Chief Admiral M. Nazmul Hasan, and Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan, paid tribute by laying wreaths. Senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Public Security Division, the Director General of the Border Guard Bangladesh, and family members of the martyrs also participated in the ceremony, reaffirming national respect for the fallen soldiers.
The Pilkhana massacre occurred on 25 February 2009 at the headquarters of the Bangladesh Rifles (now Border Guard Bangladesh), where a violent mutiny resulted in the deaths of 57 army officers, including the then Director General Major General Shakil Ahmed. In total, 74 people were killed, including family members of the officers.
A brief summary of the casualties is provided in the table below:
| Category | Number of Deaths | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|
| Army Officers | 57 | Killed at BDR headquarters |
| Other Soldiers & Family | 17 | Included officers’ family members |
| Total | 74 | Total martyrs of the Pilkhana incident |
Since last year, 25 February has been officially observed as National Martyrs’ Day. The day serves as a solemn occasion for remembrance, state homage, and prayers for the departed. In a special message, Prime Minister Tarek Rahman highlighted the nation’s enduring respect for the officers, reinforcing their legacy and sacrifice.
Today’s commemoration underscores the unwavering commitment of both the state and citizens to honour the highest courage and sacrifice of those who perished at Pilkhana.