Election Commissioner Rafiqul Islam has issued strict orders to the law enforcing agencies regarding ensuring a smooth election in the Jessore 6 constituency.
“If anyone snatches ballot papers or tries anything that will jeopardize the election on the night before the voting, shoot to kill those ballot snatchers,” he instructed the law enforcement representatives during a views-exchange meeting at the district circuit house on Thursday.
Earlier on January 21, the Election Commission declared the Jessore 6 seat vacant following the death of MP Ismat Ara Sadek. The by-election to fill the seat will be held on March 29.
Reassuring the candidates, who were also present at the meeting, Rafiqul Islam said: "We will not take any chances in terms of holding an acceptable and legitimate election. If you see any irregularities during the election, please inform the Election Commission secretariat, even over phone, so that we may take immediate action.”
The meeting, chaired by District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Shafiul Arif, was also attended by District Election Officer Humayun Kabir, Superintendent of Police Md Ashraf Hossain, BGB 49 CO Lt Col Selim Reza, executive magistrates, and the three candidates at the by-election from the Awami League, BNP and Jatiya Party.
