No nationwide illumination on Independence Day: Home Minister

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said there will be no nationwide illumination on Independence Day this year due to the ongoing energy crisis and austerity measures.

He made the announcement after a law and order committee meeting at the Home Ministry on Sunday on Sunday (March 8), urging cooperation from all ministries and the public to ensure security during the observance.

The minister said Genocide Day on March 25 will be observed with due solemnity, while security arrangements have been coordinated for the wreath-laying ceremony at the National Martyrs’ Memorial on the morning of March 26.

He also said precautionary measures have been taken to ensure smooth travel and timely payment of wages and bonuses to garment workers ahead of Eid.

He added that coordination has been strengthened with industry bodies, including the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) and Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), through the Industrial Police to prevent labour unrest.

Regarding Eid payments, he said the associations have assured that most factories will clear workers’ salaries, allowances and bonuses before the festival, with support from the government and the banking sector if needed.

Responding to a question on mob violence, the minister said isolated crimes should not be confused with mob incidents, adding that the government is serious about eliminating mob culture in Bangladesh.