In a robust opening to his official election campaign, Abdul Awal Mintu, Vice-Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has warned of a “calculated digital conspiracy” targeting the electorate of Feni-3 (Daganbhuiyan–Sonagazi). Addressing a series of rallies on Thursday, 22 January 2026, the veteran politician and business leader urged the public to resist attempts by unidentified groups to harvest sensitive personal and financial data.
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Confronting Data Predation
Mintu, who is contesting the seat under the “Paddy Sheaf” symbol, revealed that reports have surfaced of individuals moving from house to house under the guise of official business. These individuals are allegedly soliciting National Identity (NID) details and bKash account numbers from unsuspecting residents.
“This is not a random occurrence; it is a well-planned conspiracy to manipulate the democratic process,” Mintu declared during a pathshava (street rally) in Daganbhuiyan. “I urge every voter: do not hand over your private information to anyone. Protecting your data is now as critical as protecting your vote. It is your constitutional duty to resist these fraudulent collectors.”
Feni-3 Campaign Profile: 13th National Election
| Feature | Details |
| Candidate | Abdul Awal Mintu (BNP Vice-Chairman) |
| Constituency | Feni-3 (Daganbhuiyan & Sonagazi) |
| Campaign Symbol | Paddy Sheaf (Dhanner Sheesh) |
| Core Warning | Illicit collection of NID and bKash numbers |
| Election Date | 12 February 2026 |
| Key Support | Daganbhuiyan BNP, Juba Dal, and Chatra Dal |
A Call for Electoral Integrity
The first day of Mintu’s campaign saw a massive mobilisation of BNP activists and local residents. Accompanied by Daganbhuiyan Upazila BNP Convenor Akbar Hossain, Mintu traversed various union-level markets, where he was met with significant public enthusiasm.
The campaign focused heavily on the restoration of voting rights, a central theme of the 2026 General Election following the political shifts of late 2024. Mintu emphasised that the “Paddy Sheaf” represents the hope for a transparent government under the leadership of Tarique Rahman.
Security and Vigilance
Local BNP leaders, including representatives from the Juba Dal and Chatra Dal, have been instructed to form “vigilance committees” in every village. These groups are tasked with identifying and reporting any unauthorised persons attempting to collect voter data. The fear is that such data could be used for voter intimidation or digital fraud as the 12 February polling date approaches.
Mintu’s proactive stance on digital security marks a modern shift in Bangladeshi electoral rhetoric, reflecting the growing role of mobile financial services and digital IDs in the country’s social fabric.