Bangladesh celebrates Eid

Dhaka June 26 (IANS) Bangladesh on Monday celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr with religious fervour amid tight security marking the end of Ramadan.

Dressed in traditional attire people offered prayers in Eid congregations across the country reports Xinhua news agency.

President Abdul Hamid with ministers and lawmakers offered prayers in the capital city.

The country s largest congregation was held at Sholakia in Kishoreganj district which came under a terror attack last year that killed two people.

Bangladeshi Police chief Shahidul Hoque said the entire country has been brought under stringent security measures with the deployment of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and police force for peaceful and smooth Eid celebrations.

The government has declared a nine-day holiday for the festival.

Special foods were offered in hospitals government-owned welfare centres and shelter homes for children socially-handicapped people and the destitute.

President Hamid hosted an Eid reception in honour of foreign diplomats and top government officials at his residence.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has also exchanged Eid greetings with foreign diplomats politicians professionals and other officials.

--IANS
ksk/vt