Four candidates in parliamentary constituency 298 of Khagrachhari Hill District have called for heightened security measures at polling stations deemed risky or high-risk ahead of the upcoming elections, urging authorities to ensure free, fair, and impartial voting.
At a press conference at the Khagrachhari Press Club on Thursday, the candidates said that out of 203 polling stations in the constituency, 121 are considered risky and 68 are high-risk.
They demanded that the army be granted magisterial powers at least two days before the election and that law enforcement agencies maintain strict surveillance around polling centers.
The speakers highlighted the threat of armed groups in the hilly areas potentially capturing centers, intimidating voters, exerting influence, and casting fake votes.
They urged the administration and law enforcement agencies to remain on the highest alert to allow voters to exercise their rights safely.
Authorities still restrict movement in parts of Khagrachari
BNP candidate Abdul Wadud Bhuiyan, Ganadhikar Parishad candidate Dinamoy Roaja, Jatiya Party candidate Mithila Roaja, and Insaniat Biplob Dal candidate Md. Nurul Islam were present at the press conference.
Eleven candidates—including those from BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and three independents—are contesting in the constituency.