Election Commissioner Brigadier General (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah on Wednesday said there is no need to deploy the Army for the by-election to the Thakurgaon-1 constituency slated for October 29.

“Three times as many law enforcement personnel as those deployed during the parliamentary election in a seat have been assigned here. The election atmosphere has also remained favourable so far,” he said.

Sanaullah came up with the remarks while talking to reporters after a meeting with law enforcement agencies, vigilance and observation teams, and other relevant officials at the conference room of the deputy commissioner's office.

He said adequate law enforcement personnel will be deployed at polling centres and CCTV cameras would be installed, making Army deployment unnecessary for the by-election.

The election commissioner also directed the relevant officials and law enforcement agencies to remain prepared to ensure a free, fair and impartial election.

The meeting emphasised maintaining normal law and order, ensuring compliance with the electoral code of conduct, and creating a peaceful environment so that voters can cast their ballots without hindrance.

Senior Secretary of the Election Commission Akhtar Ahmed attended the meeting as a special guest, while Thakurgaon Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Rafiqul Huq chaired it.

The meeting also discussed the overall law-and-order situation surrounding the by-election, maintaining a favourable electoral environment and strengthening coordination among the relevant agencies.