Dhaka, February 9: Bangladesh is gearing up for its parliamentary elections scheduled for February 12. The final day of the election campaign took place on Monday, with preparations reaching their last stages. In a significant move, the Election Commission has prohibited the use of mobile phones within a 400-yard radius of polling stations during the upcoming referendum and national parliamentary elections.
This directive was issued in a letter signed by MD Shahidul Islam, Senior Assistant Secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat, and sent to returning officers on Sunday.
According to the commission’s decision, only three categories of individuals will be allowed to bring mobile phones inside polling stations: the presiding officer, the police officer in charge of security at the station, and two Ansar members (embodied Ansar/general Ansar/VDP) appointed to use the ‘Election Security 2026’ application.
As a result of this directive, candidates and journalists will also be prohibited from carrying or using mobile phones within the 400-yard radius of polling stations on election day.
The letter instructed divisional commissioners of Dhaka and Chattogram, deputy commissioners of all 64 districts, and regional election officers of Dhaka, Chattogram, and Khulna, including 69 returning officers, to ensure proper implementation of the decision.
The Election Commission announced the date for the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the National Charter (constitutional reform) to be held together on February 12, 2026, on December 11 last year.
Women’s participation in politics has emerged as a significant issue in the upcoming elections. According to the electoral data released by the commission, the number of female candidates in Bangladesh is notably low. Independent female candidates have reported facing threats and cybercrimes.
Media reports indicate that several female candidates across various constituencies have reported incidents of cyberbullying, character assassination, sexual harassment, and threats, aimed at intimidating them and disrupting their campaigns.
Dilshana Parul, a candidate from the National Citizen Party (NCP) in Dhaka-19, stated that she has faced persistent online trolling, particularly regarding her decision to wear a headscarf.
In an interview with the Dhaka Tribune, she said, “Not only supporters of opposing parties but also those who consider themselves progressive are involved. I believe I have been targeted the most.” Parul alleged that her campaign workers have also received threats of physical harm.
Highlighting gender-based targeting, Parul noted that male leaders are mostly criticized for corruption or policies, while women face attacks on their character. Nevertheless, she remains committed to working in the field and focusing on the development of her constituency.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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