SHOPPING malls and markets continue to be illuminated on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, which will be celebrated in little more than a week, as much in Dhaka as in outlying areas to draw in buyers. Some of the malls in some places are illuminated even during the daytime. Much of it has been an instance of competition between neighbouring shopping malls as no one wants to lag behind and lose buyers. One shopping mall cites the example of the illumination of the neighbouring mall, noting that it would refrain from the illumination if the other does so. But such illumination continues to breach the government directive, issued by the power, energy and mineral resources ministry on March 8, against excessive, decorative illumination of shopping malls and markets. The purpose of the directive is to save on fuel at a time when global fuel prices are rising because of the war that the United States and Israel have imposed on Iran, leading to large-scale conflict in the Middle East and the disruption in the passage of oil shipment through the Strait of Hormuz by Iran. The Bangladesh Shop Owners’ Association has issued a notice for shopping centres against decorative and unnecessary illumination.
Yet no one heeds either the government directive or the association’s notice. The association says that it would not side with the owners if the government takes punitive measures against errant shopping malls and markets. The government also deployed mobile courts across the capital city, beginning on the evening of March 10, to enforce the directive, but no errant shopping centres were fined in the initial drives. This is unfortunate. Yet what is more unfortunate is that the government on March 8 also decided against illumination across the country on Independence Day as part of the austerity measures to avert a likely fuel crisis. The celebration of national occasions with grandeur is essential to foster national unity, honour historical milestones and strengthen a shared sense of identity. Whilst the government should, therefore, stop illumination in shopping malls and markets without any fail, it should celebrate Independence Day and all such national occasions that boost civic pride and provide a moment for collective reflection on the nation’s journey, fostering patriotism and community spirit. Grand celebrations of national occasions act as a powerful force that brings people from diverse backgrounds together, fostering a sense of belonging to one nation.
The government should, rather, celebrate historical milestones such as Independence Day and Victory Day with the reverence that they deserve to remind citizens of the sacrifices made for their freedom. The government must, therefore, illuminate Independence Day to help the nation project its strength and unity on a global stage.
