Today is National Martyrs' Day, 17 years of Peelkhana Tragedy

Today is the 17th anniversary of the BDR rebellion or the Peelkhana tragedy. A total of 74 people, including 57 BDR army officers, were killed in this tragic mutiny at the then BDR headquarters in Peelkhana, Dhaka on February 25 and 26, 2009.In that incident, allegations were made of the brutal killing of army officers, attempts to disappear and burn the bodies, and torture of family members. The incident was described as a tragic and horrific chapter in the history of Bangladesh by the country's defense analysts. The army lost many talented and patriotic officers in this conspiratorial murder, which had a deep impact on the morale of the armed forces.

After the fall of the fascist Awami League government in the July 24 mass uprising, it was decided to observe the day as the 'National Martyrs' Day' by the state. On this occasion, various programs have been taken up in memory of the martyrs and the forgiveness of their souls has been sought.

In his message on the occasion of the National Martyrs' Day, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said, "On February 25, a massacre took place at the BDR headquarters in Peelkhana. 74 people, including 57 army officers, were martyred in the massacre. The day has not been observed with due importance since 2009. Since the country was freed from fascism in 2024, the day is being observed as 'Martyrs' Day'. On this special day, we seek forgiveness for the martyrs of the massacre. We express our deep sympathy and condolences to their bereaved family members."

"The trial of the massacre of soldiers in Peelkhana is ongoing. There is no time to say anything in detail about the pending case. However, behind this massacre, there was an activity against the independence and sovereignty of the country and the people, I think it is important for us as citizens to understand this. After this murder, there was an attempt to mislead the people with various lies or misinformation.

"The armed forces are a symbol of honor, valor and glory of an independent country. Today, we must be strong in that oath again so that no one else can engage in conspiracy against the armed forces in the future."