Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday called for a neutral investigation into the Pilkhana tragedy, describing the killing of 57 army officers as a calculated conspiracy to break the morale of the armed forces.
He made the remarks after paying tribute at the graves of the martyred office at Banani Military Cemetery.
He said the massacre of 74 people, including 57 army officers, was a shameful chapter in the nation’s history and part of a deep-rooted plot to weaken the country’s security apparatus and undermine the spirit of the Bangladesh Army and the state.
Mirza Fakhrul, noted that the people of Bangladesh have always stood firm to protect independence, sovereignty and democracy.
He said that after being entrusted with state responsibility through the elections, BNP now has an opportunity to consolidate independence and strengthen democratic values.
“We believe BNP, as always, will transform Bangladesh into a democratic state and consolidate independence and equality,” he said, adding that a neutral inquiry would be conducted to bring the perpetrators of the massacre and those who instigated it to justice.
He expressed condolences to the families of the martyrs.
He was accompanied by retired Major General Fazle Elahi Akbar, retired Lieutenant Colonel Kamruzzaman, retired Major Mizanur Rahman, retired Major Siddiqur Rahman, retired Squadron Leader Zahid Hossain, Jatiya Ganotantrik Party Chairman Khondokar Lutfur Rahman and Rakir Ahmed Bhuiyan, son of the late BDR Director General Major General Shakil Ahmed.
Earlier in the day, President Md Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman paid tribute by placing wreaths at the memorial altar at Banani Military Cemetery.
A one-minute silence was observed in honour of the deceased, during which members of the armed forces offered a formal salute.
The president and the prime minister later joined special prayers for the departed souls.
