15 Feb 2023 | 01:47 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Officials to tightened security during Martyrs' Day observations Feb. 21
Bangladesh to observe Martyrs' Day Feb. 21. Increased security, localized transport and business disruptions likely. Exercise caution.
Event
Bangladesh will observe the annual Martyrs' Day (International Mother Language Day) public holiday nationwide Feb. 21. In Dhaka, officials will host the primary event at Shaheed Minar monument. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other senior government officials will attend the gathering. Other official events will likely occur nationwide to commemorate the holiday.
Authorities will maintain a heightened security posture nationwide, especially near Shaheed Minar. Security personnel may conduct enhanced vehicular and pedestrian checks as a precaution. Additional measures, including roadblocks and diversions, may be implemented to facilitate celebratory events and the prime minister' motorcade. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely through the evening of Feb. 21.
Context
In 1952, Bengali students in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) protested against the West Pakistani government's declaration of Urdu as the national language. Several students died in the protests, and are known as the Language Movement martyrs. Bangladesh has since held annual celebrations on Feb. 21 after UNESCO declared the day as International Mother Language Day in 1999.
Advice
Exercise caution near sites hosting official events Feb. 21. Monitor trusted sources for updates. Confirm travel and commercial reservations. Carry proper identification documentation. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
