Eight Ansar members injured during election duty

Eight members of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party (VDP) were injured while performing their duties during the 13th National Parliamentary Election across the country.

The force also detained seven individuals who attempted to cast fake votes, the information was confirmed today (12 February) by Md Ashiquzzaman, deputy director and public relations officer of Bangladesh Ansar and VDP.

In a press release sent to the media, he said, "To conduct the 13th National Parliamentary Election in a free, fair and neutral manner, Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party deployed the highest number of personnel nationwide and performed a historic responsibility. Demonstrating commitment to the democratic process, professionalism and neutrality, a total of 5,76,483 officers and members of the force performed duties in this election, which is the highest among all participating forces."

"Ansar and VDP members showed great firmness and courage in preventing any threats, disorder and sabotage across the country to ensure that voters could exercise their franchise without obstruction. During duty, two members were injured in Gopalganj, three in Khagrachhari and three in Gaibandha, reflecting their sacrifice and sense of responsibility," the statement said.

Highlighting the force's role in preventing fake voting, the statement further said, "Individuals attempting to cast fake votes were identified at more than 190 polling centres nationwide. In Baniachong of Habiganj, seven people who came with the intention of casting fake votes were detained in a joint operation by Ansar-VDP and police."