Four candidates in Khagrachhari Hill District’s parliamentary constituency 298 have demanded enhanced security at polling stations marked as risky and high-risk ahead of the election, calling for steps to ensure free, fair and impartial voting.
At a press conference at the Khagrachhari Press Club on Thursday, the candidates said that of the 203 polling stations in the constituency, 121 have been identified as risky and 68 as high-risk.
They called for the army to be granted magisterial powers at least two days before polling and urged law enforcement agencies to maintain strict surveillance around polling centres, reports UNB.
The speakers warned that armed groups in the hilly areas could attempt to seize centres, intimidate voters, exert influence and cast fake votes.
They urged the administration and law enforcement agencies to remain on the highest alert so voters can exercise their franchise safely.
Those present at the press conference were BNP candidate Abdul Wadud Bhuiyan, Ganadhikar Parishad candidate Dinamoy Roaja, Jatiya Party candidate Mithila Roaja and Insaniat Biplob Dal candidate Md Nurul Islam.
A total of 11 candidates, including contenders from BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami and three independents, are contesting the seat.
