On January 20, 2025, Azerbaijan marks the 35th anniversary of the tragic events of Bloody January.
As is tradition, the people of Azerbaijan have gathered to honor the martyrs of 20 January, reflecting both sadness and immense pride.
Since the early hours of the day, large crowds have been heading to the Alley of Martyrs, where they place carnations at the graves of the fallen.
This collective tribute includes veterans, soldiers, public officials, young people, and schoolchildren, each offering respect and reverence for the heroic sons and daughters of Azerbaijan.
Commemoration ceremonies are not only taking place in Baku but also in regions and abroad, where prayers are being offered, and support is extended to the families of those who perished on that fateful day.
The events of January 20, 1990, were a brutal suppression by Soviet troops and special forces against peaceful protests.
This military aggression aimed to quash the national liberation movement and the protests against the forced deportations of Azerbaijanis and the territorial claims on Karabakh.
The massacre resulted in the deaths of 150 civilians, with over 700 others severely injured.
The first political and legal condemnation of the tragedy came from National Leader Heydar Aliyev, who declared 20 January as the Day of National Mourning and ensured social protection for the families of the martyrs.
In continued efforts, President Ilham Aliyev has strengthened the welfare of martyrs’ families, including providing health services, housing, and vehicles.
The pension for families of the martyrs and the wounded has also been increased.
The sacrifices of the 20 January martyrs have not gone unavenged.
The people of Azerbaijan regained their independence, and the lands that were occupied for nearly 30 years were liberated in the 44-day Patriotic War under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev.
In September 2023, Azerbaijan’s historic Karabakh Victory marked the end of separatism in the region, with Azerbaijani sovereignty fully restored.
The National Flag of Azerbaijan now flies proudly over Khankendi, Khojaly, Asgaran, and other liberated territories.
Ongoing reconstruction efforts in these areas are paving the way for the Great Return, where the residents of Karabakh and East Zangezur are returning to their ancestral lands.
The martyrs who paved the way for these victories will always be remembered, and their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
