BNP asks EC for data on ‘transferred voters’, raises postal ballot concerns

BNP has alleged that “a political party” is bringing in voters from outside areas to Dhaka in an attempt to secure victories for its candidates.

In a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission headquarters in Agargaon on Sunday, the party demanded urgent disclosure of details of all voters relocated to the capital.

Without naming the party, BNP also accused its workers of collecting copies of national ID cards and mobile payment numbers from voters, calling it a violation of privacy and a criminal offence.

After the meeting, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir briefed reporters, saying the party had raised objections over postal ballots as well.

“We believe the ballot paper is biased, designed to benefit a particular party. We have demanded changes to ensure fairness,” he said.

BNP urged that postal ballots for election officials be distributed only after symbols are allocated.

Fakhrul added, “Postal ballots should reflect the way we vote, with names and symbols properly included.”

He also alleged returning officers, police officials and other administrators in some constituencies were working in favour of one party, and requested their withdrawal.

Despite the concerns, Fakhrul said BNP believes a fair election is possible if the commission addresses the issues raised.

“These small flaws can be corrected,” he said.

The BNP delegation included Standing Committee Member Nazrul Islam Khan, Advisory Council Member Ismail Jabiuallah, Election Committee Member Mohammad Zakaria and lawyer Ruhul Quddus Kajal.