The Shaheed Minar premises. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Feb 19, 2026 (BSS) – Comprehensive security measures have been planned across the capital to ensure the peaceful and orderly observance of Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day on February 21.

Enhanced security will also be maintained at the Shaheed Minar premises and Azimpur Graveyard to prevent any untoward incidents and manage public gatherings.

The President and the Prime Minister are scheduled to pay homage to the language martyrs at the Central Shaheed Minar in the early hours of Saturday.

Law enforcement agencies will enforce additional security measures for 30 minutes after the President and Prime Minister pay homage to facilitate tributes by dignitaries.

After their homage, distinguished personalities, foreign diplomats stationed in Dhaka, representatives of various ministries and organisations associated with the Ekushey observances, and political leaders will lay wreaths.

Meanwhile, authorities at Dhaka University have announced that security will be tightened at all campus entrances from 7:00pm on February 20.

Residents have been requested to return to their dormitories or quarters by that time. Those requiring entry afterward must carry valid security passes and identification cards.

As part of the observances, a silent procession and Prabhat Pheri will begin at 6:30am on February 21 from the “Smriti Chirantan” premises in front of the Vice-Chancellor’s residence.

The procession, led by DU Vice-Chancellor Prof Niaz Ahmed Khan, will proceed via Udayan School and conclude at the Central Shaheed Minar.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) held a high-level coordination meeting at its headquarters to finalise comprehensive security and traffic management plans for the day.

The meeting, chaired by DMP Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali, focused on ensuring that people from all walks of life can pay their respects at the Central Shaheed Minar in an orderly and secure environment.

In his address, the commissioner emphasised heightened vigilance to avert any untoward incidents.

He directed all concerned agencies to remain alert and proactive, while intelligence agencies were instructed to intensify surveillance and monitoring activities.

At the outset of the meeting, DMP Joint Police Commissioner (Operations) Mohammad Shahidullah presented the overall security blueprint, outlining operational strategies, deployment plans and traffic control measures.

Additional Police Commissioner (Admin) Md Sarwar directed the Intelligence Department to provide advance information and ensure proper traffic management across the capital.

Additional Police Commissioner (Crime and Operations) SN Md Nazrul Islam expressed optimism that the observance would be conducted peacefully if all stakeholders perform their duties responsibly.

The DMP reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that citizens can observe the day with due solemnity, security and discipline.