In Brahmanbaria’s Sarail Upazila, a polling officer tragically passed away while on duty during voting for the national election. Md. Mujahidul Islam, 45, collapsed unexpectedly on Thursday morning, 12 February, at polling station number 51, located in the Sirajul Islam Auditorium centre. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at Sarail Upazila Health Complex.
The Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), Md. Abu Bakar Sarkar, confirmed the incident, stating that around 10:30 am, Mujahidul Islam experienced sudden physical distress while performing his polling duties. Colleagues provided prompt first aid and rushed him to the hospital. Medical personnel noted that his condition deteriorated rapidly en route, and he was declared dead upon arrival. Initial assessments suggest a possible heart-related cause, though formal medical procedures will be conducted to determine the exact reason.
Mujahidul Islam was a teacher at the Paniswar Union Islamic Foundation in Sarail Upazila, actively involved in education for many years. He had also undertaken election duties on several occasions. Colleagues remembered him as a diligent and responsible official, committed to his work.
According to sources at the polling station, the activities at station number 51 were temporarily suspended following his collapse. Subsequently, in accordance with Election Commission instructions, a substitute officer was appointed, allowing voting to resume without significant disruption.
Summary of Incident:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of Deceased | Md. Mujahidul Islam |
| Approximate Age | 45 years |
| Designation | Polling Officer |
| Workplace | Paniswar Union Islamic Foundation |
| Incident Location | Sirajul Islam Auditorium Centre, Polling Station 51 |
| Time of Incident | 12 February, 10:30 am |
| Hospital | Sarail Upazila Health Complex |
| Preliminary Cause of Death | Suspected heart-related |
Following the incident, the Upazila administration and election officials expressed deep sorrow. The UNO assured that, as per Election Commission provisions, the deceased officer’s family would receive the appropriate support and financial assistance. Further administrative help will also be extended to the family during this difficult time.
Local residents described Mujahidul Islam as a courteous and conscientious individual whose sudden passing has cast a shadow of grief over the community. Colleagues highlighted that he had given his life in service of the nation’s democratic process—an act both tragic and honourable.
In response to the incident, authorities have initiated discussions to strengthen health monitoring and ensure adequate rest and medical support for polling personnel during elections, to mitigate such unforeseen health risks in the future.