Bangladesh observes 45th Independence Day

Bangladesh celebrates the 45th Independence today to pay tributes to the martyrs who laid down their lives for the country.

Today is a public holiday in Bangladesh.

It was on this day when Bangladesh broke the shackles of suppression of Pakistan.

On March 26, 1971, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared Bangladesh's independence following the crackdown on unarmed Bangalis by the Pakistan occupation forces.

The leader also called upon the people to build a united resistance against the occupation forces.

The national flag was hoisted atop government and private buildings while the government and semi-government buildings and other public places were illuminated on the auspicious occasion, reports The Daily Star.

Bangladeshi President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will place wreaths at National Memorial in Savar as a mark of respect to the martyrs.

The President underscored the need for maintaining patience, self-restraint and forbearance along with showing respect to others' opinion in a democratic pluralism.

He also urged all to take united efforts to accelerate overall development and democratic advancement of the country.

In her message, Prime Minister Hasina expressed hope that all would engage themselves with their utmost sincerity, honesty and dedication to build Bangladesh as a peaceful, non-communal, developed and prosperous country and help place it on a prestigious position in the comity of nations.

Different political parties, including the BNP and main Opposition Jatiya Party, will observe the day with different programmes.

The Awami League has arranged a discussion at Krishibid Institution Bangladesh in the city's Framgate at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday.