Law enforcement agencies have intensified security vigilance and patrols across the country ahead of tomorrow’s 13th national parliamentary election and referendum, with the interim government rolling out a comprehensive, multi-agency security plan to ensure a peaceful and credible polling environment.
Around one million personnel from various forces have been deployed nationwide from February 8 to 14, covering the pre-poll, polling day and post-poll periods.
The deployment aims to secure nearly 43,000 polling stations and approximately 260,000 polling booths across 300 constituencies, involving about 127.5 million voters.
Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance stance against violence and sabotage, stating that all law enforcement agencies have been placed on high alert.
“We are firmly committed to keeping the law and order stable and undisrupted throughout the election period,” he said, warning that strict action would be taken against any attempt to disrupt the electoral environment.
The Home Adviser said security forces have been empowered to enter any location, including polling centres, if necessary to prevent violence.
Border vigilance, intelligence surveillance and monitoring of provocative social media content have also been strengthened.
“There is no inherent security risk for the public. Every citizen will be protected,” Chowdhury added, expressing optimism that the election will be held in a peaceful, festive and credible manner.
During a visit to the Central Control Room at Police Headquarters (PHQ), the adviser reviewed real-time monitoring systems, communication mechanisms and emergency response measures in place across the country.
He also visited New Market and Mohammadpur police stations in the capital to assess field-level preparedness, directing officers to remain vigilant, impartial and professional in carrying out their duties.
According to the Home Ministry, the deployment includes 100,000 Army personnel, 5,000 Navy members, 3,730 Air Force members, 37,453 Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) members, 3,500 Coast Guard personnel, 187,603 police members, 9,349 Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) personnel, 560,000 Ansar and VDP members and 45,820 chowkidar and dafadar.
Security arrangements have been categorised based on risk levels, with enhanced protection in important and sensitive polling centres, including metropolitan areas, the Chittagong Hill Tracts and remote regions.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Bahrul Alam expressed confidence that police would uphold professionalism and neutrality during the polls.
“Police is at a crucial turning point. Our members must demonstrate professionalism, impartiality and responsibility to regain public trust,” he said, highlighting the growing importance of cyber intelligence and social media monitoring.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali also warned against any breach of the electoral code of conduct, stressing that ensuring a flawless and impartial election must take priority over political affiliations.
Border Guard Bangladesh has launched special patrols in strategic and sensitive areas, particularly in major cities, including the capital. BGB Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui said more than 37,000 members would be deployed in 489 upazilas, with exclusive responsibility in 61 border upazilas.
“BGB will perform duties as a professional, disciplined and politically neutral force so that voters can cast their votes in a free and fair environment,” he said, adding that helicopters, drones, K-9 units and quick response teams remain on standby.
He also noted heightened vigilance along the Myanmar border to prevent smuggling, illegal infiltration and security risks linked to the Rohingya situation.
The Bangladesh Coast Guard has also been deployed in coastal and riverine areas from January 18 to February 14.
A total of 100 platoons comprising about 3,500 personnel are serving in 332 polling stations in 69 unions of remote and river-surrounded areas, including Bhola, Narayanganj, Chandpur, Khulna, Chittagong, Laxmipur, Noakhali, Cox’s Bazar, Barisal and Patuakhali.
Meanwhile, over 560,000 members of Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Force (VDP) have been deployed at 42,766 polling stations nationwide.
A central Law and Order Coordination Cell has been formed with representatives from all major law enforcement agencies, while a special team under emergency service 999 will provide round-the-clock election support.
Joint forces will conduct area-based operations, checkpoints and mobile patrols throughout the election period under the supervision of Returning Officers.
Authorities expressed confidence that the extensive security measures will ensure voters can exercise their franchise freely, safely and without disruption.
