What should a voter do if they go to a polling station and find that their vote has already been cast, or that someone is attempting to vote in their name?
The Election Commission (EC) has outlined specific authorities and procedures for lodging complaints in case of fake voting or other irregularities, aiming to ensure a free and fair election process.
Where to complain
Executive Magistrate:
Voters can directly approach the on-duty executive magistrate at the polling centre. If credible information and evidence are provided, the magistrate can take immediate action. However, if the allegation is not substantiated, the accused may be acquitted.
Assistant Returning Officer:
Complaints—either written or oral—can be submitted to the concerned assistant returning officer. Upon receiving a complaint, the officer may conduct an inquiry or refer the matter to the executive magistrate or the Election Investigation and Judicial Committee.
Returning Officer:
The returning officer of the constituency can also receive complaints. In serious cases, the returning officer has the authority to forward the matter to the Election Investigation and Judicial Committee for further action.
Election Investigation and Judicial Committee:
Complaints may be filed directly with the Election Investigation and Judicial Committee, which works in the field to address irregularities. The committee can take punitive measures. In cases of grave offences, it submits a report to the Election Commission for a final decision.
Election Commission Secretariat:
Voters may also submit complaints directly to the EC Secretariat. The commission may hold hearings, assign the matter to the relevant returning officer, or direct the investigation committee to probe the allegation. Proven complaints will result in action under existing laws.
The EC has advised voters to provide reliable information, evidence or witnesses, if possible, when filing complaints.
In addition, complaints related to law and order or election irregularities can be submitted through the “Election Security App” and special hotline numbers operated by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).
