Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday warned that the 2009 Pilkhana massacre exposed critical weaknesses in the country’s national security structure and declared that the country must remain far more vigilant to prevent any future assault on its sovereignty and armed forces.

Speaking as chief guest at the Martyred Army Officers Day observance at Dhaka Cantonment, Tarique described the February 25–26, 2009, BDR mutiny – in which 57 army officers and 17 others were brutally killed – as a deliberate attempt to destroy the nation’s sovereignty.

“The Pilkhana carnage was an evil design to cripple Bangladesh’s sovereignty. It inflicted a deep wound on our national life,” the prime minister said. “This massacre revealed vulnerabilities in our national security architecture. We must now be infinitely more cautious and proactive in safeguarding it.”

Tarique announced that the government will take concrete initiatives to ensure the long-term security and welfare of the families of the martyred officers and soldiers.

In a message issued on Tuesday ahead of the first official observance of Martyred Army Officers Day, the prime minister said the real motives behind Pilkhana have now become clear to the people in a fascism-free Bangladesh.

“For years after 2009, this day was not observed with due solemnity and respect. Only after the country was liberated from fascism in 2024 has February 25 been rightfully recognised as Martyred Army Officers Day,” he stated.

He continued, “The trial of the Pilkhana genocide is ongoing, so I cannot comment in detail. But it is now evident that forces hostile to our independence and sovereignty were actively involved behind this massacre. Attempts were made to mislead the nation with lies and disinformation.”

Tarique paid glowing tribute to the 74 martyrs and extended profound sympathy to their grieving families.

“The armed forces are the symbol of a sovereign nation’s honour, valour and pride. Today we renew our sacred oath that no conspiracy against our armed forces will ever succeed again,” he declared.

“Let our pledge on this Martyred Army Officers Day be this: we will stand united against any conspiracy that threatens the interests of our country and our people,” the prime minister concluded.