As Bangladesh commemorates its 55th Independence Day on Wednesday, the nation is set to honor the sacrifices of its freedom fighters with solemn tributes, cultural programs and political engagements.
This year’s celebrations hold special significance as the country’s interim government, led by Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus, oversees the official observances.
Dr Yunus, along with senior government officials and foreign dignitaries, will lead the Independence Day proceedings at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, where wreaths will be laid in remembrance of those who gave their lives for the country’s liberation.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs, the day will commence with a 31-gun salute at dawn in Dhaka and across the country.
At sunrise, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus will place wreaths at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar.
Following them, the Liberation War Affairs Adviser, along with family members of Birshreshtho recipients, injured war veterans and other freedom fighters, will also pay their respects by laying wreaths.
Foreign diplomats, representatives of political and social organizations and the general public will join in commemorating the martyrs of the Liberation War.
Additionally, wreath-laying ceremonies will be held at district and upazila-level memorials.
Across all divisions, districts and upazilas, national flags will be hoisted, the national anthem will be performed and students from educational institutions will participate in assemblies and parades.
On this day, all governments, semi-government, autonomous and private buildings will raise the national flag at sunrise.
Key buildings and structures in Dhaka will be illuminated, except on the night of Tuesday, in remembrance of the 1971 Genocide.
Major roads and intersections in Dhaka and other cities will be decorated with national flags and banners.
The president and the chief adviser delivered special messages to the nation to mark the occasion.
Preparations at the National Martyrs' Memorial
The 108-hectare National Martyrs’ Memorial has undergone extensive renovations to prepare for the celebrations.
Beautification efforts include landscaping, fresh coats of paint, and the installation of decorative lighting.
Security measures have also been tightened, with CCTV cameras installed across the premises.
Public access to the memorial has been restricted since March 16 and will reopen after the official ceremonies on Wednesday.
Mizanur Rahman, assistant engineer of the Savar Public Works Department, said: “In preparation for the Great Independence Day celebrations, the entire memorial premises have been cleaned and decorated with flowers. All activities, including painting, installation of CCTV cameras, lighting and lake renovations, have been completed.”
Over a hundred workers were involved in these efforts over the past month and a half.
Beyond official ceremonies, the capital and other major cities will host various cultural programs, parades and discussions to commemorate the day.
Schools, universities and local organizations have planned events highlighting the nation’s history, while special prayers will be offered in mosques, temples, and churches across the country.
Television channels and newspapers will feature special programs and supplements dedicated to the Liberation War, ensuring that the new generation remains connected to the nation’s roots.
Political parties' arranging Independence Day programs
The BNP has outlined a comprehensive 10-day program to mark Independence Day.
Their official observances began on March 16 and will culminate with major events on Wednesday.
BNP leaders and activists will pay tribute to the martyrs by placing wreaths at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar at 7am, followed by a visit to the grave of party founder Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Banglanagar.
A special prayer session will be held there in his memory.
Additionally, On Thursday, the Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal, BNP’s freedom fighters’ wing, will organize a mass gathering of war veterans in front of the central office.
The party has also scheduled the publication of special newspaper supplements to mark the occasion.
In an official press release the ousted Awami league announced elaborate program to observe the Independence Day including placing wrath in National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, Bangabandhu Bhaban of Dhanmondi 32 and Tungipara.
In addition, Awami League top leaders are in exile after their fall down in August 5, called for a virtual discussion program to mark this day.
Jamaat-e-Islami has announced its own set of programs for Independence Day, emphasizing national unity and political reform.
The party’s Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman, issued a statement reaffirming Jamaat’s commitment to Bangladesh’s sovereignty, saying: “There will be no compromise on the country’s independence and sovereignty. National unity is crucial for building a just and prosperous nation.”
Jamaat has arranged workers’ conferences and public meetings across various districts in the lead-up to Wednesday.
These gatherings aim to engage citizens in discussions about the country’s future, particularly focusing on electoral reforms.
Ameer has called for a fair and inclusive political environment, urging all parties to work together to ensure transparent elections.
Enhanced security measures
To maintain a secure environment during the celebrations, approximately 4,000 police officers will be deployed in and around the Savar area.
The Dhaka-Aricha Highway, spanning from Aminbazar to Gonoshasthaya Kendra, has been segmented into 12 sectors, each monitored by assigned police personnel.
Authorities have advised transport operators to avoid this stretch between 5:30am and 7:30am on March 26, recommending alternative routes during these hours.
To accommodate the large-scale celebrations and ensure security, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has announced road closures and traffic restrictions on Wednesday.
Closed to vehicular movement in Sergeant Ahad Police Box (Gulistan) to Ittefaq Intersection.
Restricted entry in the Dilkusha Commercial Area and Rajuk Crossing (DIT Road).
North end of Park Road to Ittefaq Intersection has no vehicles allowed.
Alternative routes are recommended via Dainik Bangla, UBL, and Press Club.
No commercial vehicles permitted during the celebration hours in Dainik Bangla to Rajuk.
DMP has urged residents to plan their routes accordingly and use alternative roads to avoid congestion.
As Bangladesh stands united in celebration, this Independence Day serves as a powerful reminder of the country’s resilience, progress, and the collective responsibility of its citizens to uphold the values of freedom and democracy.