KATHMANDU, Jan 29: Martyrs' Day is being observed across the country today with various programs in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the establishment and restoration of democracy and freedom in different periods of history.
Martyrs' Day has been observed every year on Magh 16 since 2007 BS. However, despite commemorating the martyrs annually, concerns have been raised about the lack of adequate efforts to fulfill their aspirations. Meanwhile, formal programs on this day continue to feature commitments from responsible authorities to realize the martyrs' dreams.
Martyrs' Week is observed from Magh 10 to 16 with various events. Since 2012 BS, Kathmandu Municipality has been organizing the Martyrs' Day commemoration on Magh 16 each year.
Among four noted martyrs, Shukraraj Shastri was executed by the Rana rulers on Magh 10, 1997 BS, at Pachali in Teku, Kathmandu. Similarly, Dharma Bhakta Mathema was executed at Siphal on Magh 13, while Gangalal Shrestha and Dasharath Chand were shot dead at Shobha Bhagwati on Magh 15.
On the occasion of Martyrs' Day on Wednesday, a morning rally has been scheduled from Shantibatika, Ratnapark, to the Martyrs' Memorial in Lainchaur. The program will include the participation of the Prime Minister, ministers, senior government officials, people's representatives, security forces, a marching band, and parade units, concluding with a tribute to both known and unknown martyrs at the memorial.
Similarly, in remembrance of martyrs from Lakhan Thapa to those who sacrificed their lives in recent struggles for freedom, a program at the National Martyrs' Memorial in Gokarneshwar will be held. This initiative follows a Cabinet decision on Jestha 11, 2064 BS. The event, organized by the National Martyrs and Peace Park Civil Service (memorial) Yagyadol (Jagdol) Community Forest Tourism Promotion and Garden Management Committee, will have Forest and Environment Minister Ain Bahadur Shahi as the chief guest, according to Committee Chairman Sudarshan Sigdel.
Before 2063 BS, the government used to hold special programs at the Martyrs' Gate to mark Martyrs' Day. However, in recent years, the main commemorative event has been held at the Martyrs' Memorial in Lainchaur, while various organizations continue to observe the day at the Martyrs' Gate as well.
Recently, it has been announced that a tribute site for martyrs will be established within the Republic Memorial at Narayanhiti Palace Museum. The memorial will serve as a venue where the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, ministers, and other high-ranking officials will pay homage to martyrs after taking their oath of office. Additionally, the site will provide a designated area for visiting foreign dignitaries to lay wreaths in honor of those who sacrificed their lives for freedom.