August 5, July 16 included in list of observances, March 7 excluded

The list of national and international observances prepared by the interim government has been retained by the government of Bangladesh Nationalist Party, although a few minor changes have been made.

According to a new circular on the observance and celebration of national and international days, a total of 89 observances have been included. Among them, 17 are classified under Category ‘A’, 37 under Category ‘B’, and 35 under Category ‘C’.

The list of Category ‘A’ includes August 5 as “July Mass Uprising Day”, while July 16 has been included in Category ‘B’ as “July Martyrs’ Day”.

However, the eight national observances that were previously cancelled by the interim government have not been reinstated.

On October 16, 2024, the advisory council of the interim government decided to cancel these eight observances. They included the birthday of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and National Children’s Day, August 5 as Sheikh Kamal Day, August 8 as Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Day, August 15 as National Mourning Day, October 18 as Sheikh Russell Day, March 7 as National Day, November 4 as Constitution Day, and December 12 as Smart Bangladesh Day.

According to the circular, Category ‘A’ observances must be celebrated with due importance. Some Category ‘B’ days may be observed to raise social awareness, with a maximum government allocation of Tk 50,000.

Category ‘C’ observances will be marked on a limited scale and will not receive any government funding.

The circular also emphasises observing national and international observances together if they fall on the same date and share similar themes. The previous circular issued on August 14 last year has been cancelled under the new directive.