Bangladesh Navy Chief Admiral M Nazmul Hasan on Sunday directed all concerned to remain on maximum alert to closely monitor the overall situation at polling centres, maintain law and order, and ensure the safety of voters.

The Navy chief gave the directives while exchanging views after visiting coastal Bhola Sadar and Charfassion upazila in Bhola district.

He called upon the Bangladesh Navy, other law enforcement agencies, the local administration and all stakeholders to work in a united manner so that voters can exercise their franchise in a festive atmosphere without any fear or intimidation, according to an ISPR media release.

The ISPR also said the Bangladesh Navy is performing duties under ‘In Aid to Civil Power’ in 17 parliamentary constituencies across 24 upazilas and two city corporations. The Navy remains ready to provide maximum cooperation to the local administration and concerned authorities to ensure the smooth conduct of the upcoming election.

Alongside ensuring the security of voters in the assigned areas, the Navy is determined to help organise a peaceful, fair, free and acceptable election, the ISPR added.

Bhola District's Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, Civil Surgeon, District Election Officer, officials of law enforcement agencies, Fire Service and Civil Defence, BIWTA, and responsible officers at upazila and thana levels, along with other senior officials, also attended the event.

During the meeting, emphasis was placed on inter-agency coordination and overall security arrangements to ensure that the upcoming national parliamentary election is held in a peaceful, neutral and orderly manner.