The government has decided to observe a one-minute symbolic blackout across the country on March 25 to commemorate the martyrs who were killed during the brutal crackdown by the Pakistani occupation forces on the night of March 25, 1971.
According to the decision, the blackout will take place from 10:00 pm to 10:01 pm, except in emergency installations and Key Point Installations (KPI).
The decision was taken at an inter-ministerial meeting held at the Secretariat on Sunday (March 8) at the Ministry of Home Affairs. The meeting was chaired by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed.
During the meeting, officials also discussed comprehensive security measures to observe the March 25 Genocide Day and March 26 Independence and National Day with due dignity.
As part of the government directives, no decorative lighting will be allowed on the night of March 25 in order to maintain a solemn atmosphere. Considering the current global situation, decorative lighting has also been restricted on March 26, Independence Day.
To ensure proper implementation of these decisions, special instructions have been issued to divisional commissioners, police commissioners, deputy inspectors general (DIGs), and deputy commissioners (DCs).
Officials at the meeting said the Ministry of Home Affairs will work in coordination with other authorities to implement law and order-related measures, in line with decisions taken at a meeting of the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs on January 27.
To mark the day, educational institutions across the country will organise remembrance and discussion programs. Schools, colleges, madrasas and technical institutions will arrange events where freedom fighters and distinguished personalities will highlight the true history of the March 25 genocide.
In addition, documentary screenings and rare photo exhibitions on the genocide will be held in all city corporation areas from 12:00 pm.
Authorities have instructed police and local administrations to work in coordination to ensure the successful implementation of these programmes.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs will arrange special prayers across the country for the peace of the martyrs’ souls. These prayers will be held after Zuhr prayers or at convenient times in mosques, temples, churches and other places of worship.
Meanwhile, the Power Division and district administrations will take necessary technical and administrative measures to successfully implement the symbolic blackout programme.
Officials present at the meeting said the government is committed to ensuring the highest level of security and dignity in observing these two historically significant national days.
