DHAKA: President and Prime Minister paid homage to martyrs of the historic language movement by placing floral wreaths at the Central Shaheed Minar at one minute past midnight Friday.

President M Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina proceeded to the altar of the Central Shaheed Minar together in slow pace as the immortal song on Amar Ekushey ‘Amar Bhayer Rakte Rangano Ekushey February’ was playing.

The premier, also ruling Awami League president, arrived at the Shaheed Minar a few minutes before the clock struck 12:00 midnight and the President also arrived just before the zero hour.

The President was the first to place the wreath at the Central Shaheed Minar.

After the President, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina paid homage to the language martyrs placing floral wreath ceremonially at the Central Shaheed Minar.

They stood in silence for some time in front of the Central Shaheed Minar on the occasion.

BDST: 0111 HRS, FEB 21, 2014