Photo: BSS

RANGPUR, Feb 21, 2026 (BSS) - A discussion meeting, reception of language soldiers and award distribution were held in Rangpur city on the occasion of the Martyrs' Day and International Mother Language Day-2026. 
 
Rangpur Divisional Commissioner Md Shahidul Islam was present at the event organized by the district administration at the Rangpur District Shilpokola Academy Auditorium in the city today.
 
Rangpur Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Enamul Ahsan presided over the programme. 
 
In his speech, the Divisional Commissioner said, "Bangla is our mother language. So that the culture of this language is not lost, we have to keep the culture of the Bangla language in our hearts and minds." 
 
He said that the movement of February 21, 1952, is one of the movements held to establish Bengali as the state language. That is why this day is very significant for the people of the country.
 
Regarding the practice of Bengali language, he said, it is necessary for everyone at all levels of the country to practice Bengali language properly. 
 
He called on everyone to work for the development of the country by adopting the ideals of language soldiers. 
 
Speaking at the event, Rangpur-3 constituency MP Md Mahbubur Rahman Belal said that no other nation except the Bangalees has given their lives for language. That is why February 21 is observed as International Mother Language Day. 
 
Expressing his anger he said, "Even after a long period of language movement, we have not been able to give space to Bengali language at all levels."
 
In many places including offices, courts, hotels and restaurants, incorrect Bengali spelling and banners, posters and signboards written in English are being used, which is very sad. A nation that despises its own language can never develop. 
 
He called on everyone to love the Bengali language and reflect it in every aspect of their lives. 
 
Rangpur Metropolitan Police Commissioner Md Majid Ali, Rangpur Additional Superintendent of Police Md Joynal Abedin, Language Soldier Mohammad Afzal, among others, addressed the discussion. 
 
Later, Language Soldier Mohammad Afzal was felicitated. 
 
Then, prizes were distributed among the winners of drawing, writing and recitation competitions and cultural programmes were organized to mark the day.