Dhaka, Nov. 7 -- The ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) observed National Revolution and Solidarity Day with elaborate programmes across the country on Saturday, the first time the day was celebrated at the state level since the party came to power through the February 12 parliamentary election.

After 17 years of what it described as authoritarian rule, followed by an interim government, the BNP-led government assumed office under the leadership of Tarique Rahman following the election.

For the first time, the day is being observed with state-level programmes, with the BNP-led government declaring it a public holiday.

The party marked the occasion with rallies and various programmes across the country, with Prime Minister and BN...