17yrs since the brutal Pilkhana tragedy: Nation observes National Martyred Army Day

Published : Wednesday, 25 February, 2026 at 10:31 AM Count : 1394

Bangladesh on Wednesday marks the 17th anniversary of the tragic Pilkhana massacre, one of the darkest chapters in the nation's history.

On February 25, 2009, the then Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) mutiny broke out simultaneously in different parts of the country. The most brutal killings, however, took place at the BDR headquarters in Pilkhana, Dhaka.

A total of 74 people, including 57 army officers, were killed in the carnage. Among the victims was the then Director General of BDR, Major General Shakil Ahmed.

The incident sent shockwaves across the country and left a deep scar on the armed forces and the nation as a whole.

As per the government decision, the day has been officially observed as 'National Martyred Army Day' since 2025.

Marking the day, various programs have been organised to commemorate the martyrs. The nation is paying solemn tribute to the fallen heroes, remembering their sacrifice with profound respect and gratitude.

Victim families, however, urge the new government to act on the findings of the independent inquiry rather than reopen a case that they say has already been exhaustively investigated.