In photos: Glimpses of 'Eid' as nation votes in election, referendum

The nation is voting today (12 February) in a landmark double-ballot exercise to elect its next government and decide on sweeping constitutional reforms, marking the first general election since the fall of the Awami League administration in August 2024.

Polling for the 13th national election and the referendum on the 'July Charter' commenced at 7:30am across 299 constituencies. With nearly 900,000 security personnel, including the army, deployed nationwide, officials and citizens alike described the early atmosphere as festive and "reminiscent of Eid."

For many, the day was about reclaiming a long-lost right.

70-year-old Momtaz Begum braved severe leg pain to reach the Madhurchar Government Primary School in Keraniganj, leaning on the shoulders of relatives.

"I came all the way... just to vote for my favourite candidate," she told reporters.

The "festival of democracy" also saw a massive turnout of youth.

Redwan Ahmed, an honors student at the Bornomala School centre, said he could not sleep all night due to the excitement.

Beyond electing 300 members of parliament, voters are deciding the fate of the July Charter, a 48-point reform blueprint proposed by the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government.

A "Yes" victory would legally obligate the incoming parliament to function as a constituent council to approve reforms, including prime ministerial term limits and a bicameral legislature.

Professor Siddiqur Rahman Khan, dean of the Faculty of Arts at Dhaka University, noted the day's dual importance.

"The nation is eager... This vote is crucial. Not only will people elect a government of their choice, but they will also play a role in constitutional change."

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin expressed hope for a fair and peaceful transition, while law enforcement officials warned that any attempts to obstruct the process would meet "zero tolerance."