No Bangladesh-India reunion at Benapole on Mother Language Day this year

There will be no gathering of language enthusiasts from Bangladesh and India at the Benapole border this year to mark International Mother Language Day.

Every year, language lovers from both Bangladesh and India would come together at the no-man’s land of the Benapole Checkpost in Jashore to observe the day. Wearing black badges and singing "Amar Bhaiyer Rokte Rangano Ekushey February," they would honor the language martyrs. During this time, people from both sides of the border would embrace one another, momentarily forgetting the geographical divide.

People would gather in large numbers, disregarding the border fences, motivated by their love for the language. Various social and cultural organizations from both India and Bangladesh would participate. Temporary Shaheed Minars were set up at both the Petrapole and Benapole checkposts, where people would offer flowers to honor the martyrs.

However, this year, the tradition will not take place at the Benapole border. In previous years, government representatives and ministers from both countries would visit each other’s countries to lay flowers at the memorial. Due to ongoing political tensions and issues in international relations, there will be no joint celebration at the no-man’s land this year. A smaller event will take place in Petrapole instead.

Regarding this, Nuruzzaman Liton, General Secretary of BNP in Sharsha upazila, said, "Due to political tensions and strained international relations following the fall of the fascist government, there will be no gathering at the Benapole Checkpost this year. However, a small ceremony will be held in Petrapole. If the political situation improves, the event will resume next year."