STAFF CORRESPONDENT

The Independence and National Day is today (Thursday).

In the wake of the deadly novel coronavirus, the government has suspended all programmes of the day.

On the eve of the day, President M Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina gave separate messages extending heartfelt greetings and warm felicitations to the countrymen living both at home and abroad.

Paying tributes to the martyrs and veterans of the War of Liberation at the national mausoleum at Savar has been suspended.

Usually on that day, President M Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina place wreaths early in the morning as a mark of profound respect to the memories of the martyrs.

But this year, all programmes are suspended.

National dailies are to bring out special supplements while Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television, private radio stations and television channels will air special programmes highlighting the significance of the day.

Different political parties as well as socio-cultural and professional organisations have also suspended all programmes to avoid public gathering and maintain social distancing following the directives of the government as well as the World Health Organization (WHO).

United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres and President of the United States Donald Trump have extended warm greetings to the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of the day.