Bangladesh is prepared to observe 'Genocide Day' tomorrow (March 25) in solemn remembrance of the brutal crackdown by Pakistani occupation forces on unarmed Bengalis in 1971.

The day, which commemorates the atrocities carried out under the codename “Operation Searchlight,” will be followed by a grand ceremonial parade on March 26 to celebrate the nation’s Independence and National Day.

According to a PID handout, the government has chalked out a series of nationwide programs to mark the occasion with due respect.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have issued special messages to be shared across print, electronic, and social media platforms.

A symbolic one-minute blackout will be observed throughout the country from 10:30 pm to 10:31 pm on March 25.

Key point installations (KPIs) and emergency establishments are exempt from the blackout, and no decorative illumination will be permitted during the night.

Memorial discussions and seminars featuring eminent personalities and valiant freedom fighters will be held at educational institutions, including schools, colleges, madrasahs, and technical institutes.

These sessions will highlight the history of the genocide and the Great Liberation War. Additionally, starting at 12 pm, documentary screenings and rare photographic exhibitions will be arranged at selected locations across all city corporation areas, including the capital.

Religious observances will include special prayers for the massacre victims, held at mosques after Zuhr prayers and at other places of worship at convenient times.

A seminar organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Liberation War Museum is also scheduled for 10 am.

The commemoration will transition into Independence and National Day celebrations on March 26, highlighted by a ceremonial parade and fly-past at the National Parade Square at 9 am.

President Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Rahman are expected to attend the event, which is open to the public through designated entry gates 2, 3, 4, 10 and 11.

These national programs were finalized during a recent inter-ministerial meeting to ensure the successful and dignified implementation of the observances.