Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday called for a fair and transparent investigation into the 2009 BDR carnage, saying justice must prevail for the victims of the tragedy.
He made the remarks after placing wreaths at the Banani Military Graveyard in the capital, marking National Martyred Army Day, observed in remembrance of those killed in the Pilkhana carnage.
“The nation must ensure justice for the victims while strengthening Bangladesh’s sovereignty and democracy,” Mirza Fakhrul said.
Referring to the 25-26 February 2009 mutiny at the Pilkhana headquarters of the then Bangladesh Rifles (BDR), he described the killings as “a shameful and disgraceful chapter” in the country’s history.
A total of 74 people, including 57 army officers, were killed during the incident.
Fakhrul alleged that the mutiny was part of a conspiracy aimed at weakening the morale of the Bangladesh Army and destabilising the nation.
He stressed that those responsible - both individuals and any forces involved - must be brought to justice through an impartial process.
“We demand a fair and transparent investigation into this heinous crime to identify and punish the responsible persons,” he said.
He also said the people of Bangladesh have consistently stood to safeguard the country’s sovereignty, independence and democratic values. With the Bangladesh Nationalist Party currently in government, he noted, there is an opportunity to further consolidate democratic institutions.
Several retired military officers and political leaders were present at the commemoration ceremony.
Earlier, on 12 February 2025, the government declared 25 February as National Martyred Army Day to honour the memory of the army officers who lost their lives in the Pilkhana tragedy.
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