Is July 16 a government holiday?

The government will officially observe July 16 as "July Shaheed Day." Various programs have been undertaken by the government to mark the day. However, contrary to discussions circulating on social media, there will be no government holiday on this day.

Today (Sunday), State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Engineer Ishraque Hossain said that the ministry has taken various programs on the occasions of "July Shaheed Day" on July 16 and "July Mass Uprising Day 2026" on August 5.

In a circular issued last July 2, signed by Tania Afroz, Deputy Secretary of the Cabinet Division, the decision to observe July 16 as "July Shaheed Day" was communicated.

According to the Cabinet Division circular, the day has been included as a national holiday of the 'Kha' (B) category. As per government provisions, there is no public holiday on 'Kha' category days. Therefore, on July 16, government offices, courts, educational institutions, and other government activities will function as usual.

The circular stated that "July Shaheed Day" has been added to the 'Kha' category of the circular on observing national and international days issued on October 21, 2024. Although days in this category are officially observed, government holidays are generally not declared on such occasions.

On the other hand, the government had previously declared a public holiday on November 7 to observe "National Revolution and Solidarity Day." The day has been included as a 'Ka' (A) category day. As a 'Ka' category day, November 7 will be a government holiday every year and will be observed nationally.