Anti-sovereignty forces were behind Pilkhana killings: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said that activities hostile to the country’s independence and sovereignty were behind the 2009 Pilkhana massacre.

In a message issued on Wednesday (February 25) marking National Martyred Army Day, he recalled that on February 25, 2009, 74 people — including 57 army officers — were killed during the mutiny at the then Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) headquarters in Pilkhana, Dhaka.

He noted that the day had not been observed with due importance in the years following the tragedy, but since 2024 it has been officially commemorated as National Martyred Army Day.

On the occasion, he offered prayers for the departed souls and expressed deep sympathy for the bereaved families.

Referring to the ongoing trial over the killings, the prime minister said it would not be appropriate to comment in detail on a matter under judicial process.

However, he stressed that anti-independence and anti-sovereignty activities had existed behind the massacre, and that citizens should remain mindful of this reality.

He also alleged that attempts had been made to mislead the public through misinformation following the incident.

Describing the armed forces as a symbol of the honour, valor and pride of an independent nation, he called for renewed vigilance to prevent any future conspiracy against the military.

“On this Martyred Army Day, let us pledge to stand united against any conspiracy that goes against the interests of the country and its people,” he said.