Deputy Commissioner of Chattogram and Returning Officer Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah today said there would be no concession on ensuring voter security inside polling centres during the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election and referendum.
He made the remarks while inaugurating a day-long election training programme and view-exchange meeting with polling officers in Rangunia upazila of the district on Tuesday morning.
Addressing the polling officers, the DC stressed that they must take full responsibility for maintaining security inside polling booths and perform their duties with honesty and integrity. He said a fair and impartial election is essential for building a strong and democratic country for future generations.
Zahidul Islam Miah also highlighted that security apps, CCTV cameras and body-worn cameras will be used to closely monitor voting activities in this year’s election and referendum. He warned against any negligence in duty and urged polling officers to have a clear understanding of election and referendum laws, as well as to provide accurate information to voters.
Emphasizing honesty, responsibility and public trust in the electoral process, the DC reminded polling officials to uphold their constitutional duties above personal political preferences and to maintain strict neutrality while performing their responsibilities.
Chattogram District Police Superintendent Mohammad Nazir Ahmed Khan, who attended the programme as a special guest, warned about the spread of propaganda on social media by vested interest groups during the election. He called for heightened vigilance and assured that law enforcement agencies are working to prevent any use of force or violence in the electoral process.
The programme was presided over by Rangunia Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Assistant Returning Officer Md. Nazmul Hasan, while Assistant Commissioner (Land) Debabrata Das moderated the session.
Other special guests included Mohammad Mostaq Ahmed, Director and District Commandant of Ansar and VDP Chattogram; Golam Mainuddin Hasan, Director of Local Government Chattogram; Additional Deputy Commissioner (Education and ICT) Pathan Md. Saiduzzaman; and Mohammad Bashir Ahmed, Senior District Election Officer of Chattogram.
A total of 92 presiding officers, 610 assistant presiding officers and 1,220 polling officers from Rangunia Upazila participated in the full-day training. The session covered election laws, roles and responsibilities of polling officials, polling station management, ballot and referendum procedures, and strategies for handling unexpected situations.
