One-minute ‘blackout’ to mark ‘Genocide Day’: Home minister

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal today said the government has decided to observe a one-minute 'blackout' programme on the night of March 25, marking 'Genocide Day'.

The minister came out with the information after a meeting at the conference room of the ministry with the presence of top officials of the law enforcement agencies on observing 'Genocide Day' on March 25 and Independence Day on March 26.

The 'blackout' programme will be observed for one minute from 9:00 pm on March 25.

Responding to a question from reporters, he said the government will not suspend power supply.

Everyone will switch their light off. The information about the programme will be disseminated through media. Additional security measures will also be taken on the occasion.

Asaduzzaman also sought cooperation from all in observing the days in a befitting manner.

However, establishments of emergency services will remain out of the purview of the programme, said Asaduzzaman.

Besides, measures will be taken to maintain security at Savar National Mausoleum, Martyr Intellectual Memorial at Rayerbazar and Suhrawardy Udyan, he said.

The minister said the uninterrupted power supply will be ensured at the National Memorial and other approved venues for observing March 26.

Besides, medical services, water supply and utility services will be ensured for holding the programmes peacefully, he said.

A special diet will be provided in jails, hospitals and orphanages marking the day.

The minister said if anyone wants to arrange any cultural function marking March 26 he or she has to inform the police.

In 2017, the government officially declared March 25 as 'Genocide Day', marking the widespread killings by Pakistani Army on the unarmed Bengalis on the black night of March 25, 1971.