In a decisive move ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and associated referendum, the Election Commission (EC) has imposed a stringent four-day restriction on the presence of outsiders in all designated electoral areas. The measure aims to ensure that the voting process remains free, fair, and peaceful.
Under the directive, no unauthorised individuals will be allowed to enter or remain within electoral zones from 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, 10 February, until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, 13 February. Only officials directly involved in election activities, personnel authorised by the Election Commission, and voters registered in the respective constituencies will be permitted access during this period.
The order, issued on Monday, 9 February, was signed by Md. Shahidul Islam, Senior Assistant Secretary of the EC’s Election Management and Coordination-1 Division. The notice clarifies that the restriction applies from 48 hours before the commencement of polling until 24 hours after the conclusion of voting, effectively covering pre-election, election day, and immediate post-election periods.
The Election Commission has instructed the relevant authorities to implement all necessary measures to enforce the restrictions. This includes close monitoring by police and local administrative bodies to prevent the presence of unnecessary or unauthorised individuals. Officials emphasised that such vigilance is critical for safeguarding voter security, maintaining public order, and preserving the transparency and integrity of the election process.
The Commission’s notification highlights the importance of these steps in protecting the democratic process and ensuring that voters can cast their ballots without fear or undue influence. The measures are also expected to facilitate smoother operational management of polling stations and surrounding areas.
A summary of the restriction schedule is provided in the table below:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Restriction Start | 10 February, 7:30 a.m. |
| Restriction End | 13 February, 4:00 p.m. |
| Applicable Persons | Election officials, EC-authorised personnel, registered local voters |
| Applicable Areas | All polling stations and surrounding electoral zones |
| Purpose | Ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections |
Election observers have described this move as a crucial step in maintaining law and order during one of the country’s most significant political exercises. By limiting the presence of outsiders, the EC aims to reduce the risk of disturbances, intimidation, or electoral malpractice.
As Bangladesh approaches this pivotal 13th parliamentary election, the Commission’s proactive measures are expected to play a key role in upholding public confidence in the democratic process and in delivering a credible, orderly, and secure voting experience.