Helicopters to land near Evercare under SSF protocol, public urged to avoid speculation

The government has granted Khaleda Zia VVIP status, resulting in SSF and PGR members taking charge of security in the hospital area

The government has said that Army and Air Force helicopters will conduct test landings and takeoffs at two open fields near Dhaka’s Evercare Hospital, where former prime minister Khaleda Zia is currently undergoing treatment.

The members of the public have been asked not to be confused by the development as speculation swirls around the ailing BNP chief's health.

A message from the Chief Advisor's Office (CAO) on Wednesday said: "According to the security protocol of the Special Security Force (SSF), the Bangladesh Army and Air Force will conduct experimental landings and takeoffs between 1200 and 1600 hours on Dec 4, 2025."

"The public is requested to refrain from any kind of propaganda or confusion concerning the matter."

Khaleda has been hospitalised since Nov 23. Her condition worsened following a severe lung infection, and doctors transferred her to the Critical Care Unit on Nov 27 for intensive monitoring.

The interim government decided on Tuesday to declare her a Very Very Important Person (VVIP), allowing the SSF to take over the security responsibility of the former premier.

Following this, SSF and the President Guard Regiment (PGR) members took charge of the security in the Evercare area on Tuesday.