Speaking at a press briefing held at the Central Shaheed Minar on Thursday, the DMP Commissioner assured that there is no  security concern surrounding Ekushey February. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, Feb 20, 2026 (BSS) - Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner SM 
Sazzat Ali has said that flawless and multi-layered security arrangements 
have been put in place at the Central Shaheed Minar and its surrounding areas 
marking the Shaheed (Martyrs') Day and International Mother Language Day 
tomorrow.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Central Shaheed Minar premises in 
the capital on Thursday, the DMP Commissioner assured that there is no 
security concern surrounding Ekushey February. 

Around 15,000 police personnel will be deployed in and around the Shaheed 
Minar area to ensure peaceful observance of the day, he said.

"A huge crowd is expected to gather to pay tribute to the language martyrs. 
Considering this, we have taken comprehensive security measures," he added.

According to the Commissioner, several layers of security will be enforced, 
including the deployment of bomb disposal units, CCTV surveillance, and dog 
squads. Police will also work in coordination with other law enforcement 
agencies. 

Volunteers will assist police members in maintaining order.
Security will be tightened across key roads in the capital, particularly in 
the Dhaka University (DU) area. 

Traffic diversions will come into effect after the evening, with diversions 
at seven specific points. City dwellers have been requested to comply with 
the directions for smooth movement and security.

The DMP Commissioner urged visitors to use Palashi intersection, Jagannath 
Hall crossing, and Shaheed Minar Road to access the Shaheed Minar. 

After paying homage, visitors have been advised to exit through Doel Chattar 
or Chankharpul area, he said, adding that no other routes should be used.

The DMP chief also requested the public not to carry any sharp objects or 
flammable materials into the Shaheed Minar area.

Earlier in the day, he inspected the overall preparations at the Central 
Shaheed Minar.

The Central Shaheed Minar will be opened to people from all walks of life 
around 12:40 am, after the President, Prime Minister, other important state 
dignitaries, and foreign diplomats pay their tributes, the DMP Commissioner 
said.