More than half of the polling centres across Rajshahi Division have been identified as risky ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections, according to police assessments and Special Branch reports.
A total of 1.54 crore voters in 39 parliamentary constituencies under eight districts will cast their votes at 5,504 polling centres. Election officials said preparations are underway, including the recruitment and training of presiding and polling officers, while law enforcement agencies will be responsible for maintaining security.
Police sources said 2,786 polling centres have been initially classified as high risk due to past incidents of violence and law-and-order disruptions. Another 1,307 centres have been marked as partially risky. Authorities are working to prevent any untoward incidents on election day.
Rajshahi Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Dr Md Shahjahan, PPM, said the division has slightly more than 11,000 police personnel. “Each polling centre will be guarded by a combined force of police, Ansar, and other security units. Risk assessments will continue until the day before voting, and all possible measures are being taken to ensure a free and fair election,” he said.
Police officials said regular meetings will be held with contesting candidates and representatives from various professional and social groups to reduce risks at sensitive centres. All officials assigned to polling duties have been instructed to take strict legal action if necessary.
Bogra district has the highest number of risky polling stations. Of its 983 polling centres across seven constituencies, 501 have been identified as high risk. Rajshahi district follows, with 439 of its 778 polling stations marked risky across six constituencies.
In Chapainawabganj, 342 of 515 polling centres across three constituencies have been classified as risky. Natore has 192 risky centres out of 780, while Naogaon has 364 out of 782. In Sirajganj, 462 of 923 polling centres are considered high risk. Pabna has 269 risky centres out of 712, and in Joypurhat, 176 of 255 polling centres have been identified as risky.
Divisional Regional Election Officer Anisur Rahman said polling centres are categorized based on past records, current conditions, remoteness, and other risk factors. “We refer to these as important centres. Through coordinated efforts with law enforcement and government agencies, we are working to minimize risks and ensure a smooth and credible voting process,” he said.
