How mobile court magistrates preparing the ground for election day
The Ministry of Public Administration issued a notification on 3 February appointing 1,051 officials with executive magistrate powers for mobile courts under the Election Commission, assigning them duties from 8 February to 14 February across the country.
More than 1,000 mobile courts deployed ahead of the national election are working to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral environment for voters and citizens at all levels.
Executive magistrates, accompanied by members of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and other law enforcement agencies, are conducting patrols across constituencies nationwide and inspecting polling centres.
In some districts, magistrates are also visiting markets and other public gathering places to speak with citizens.
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An official serving as an executive magistrate in Dhaka, speaking to The Business Standard (TBS) on condition of anonymity, said their primary tasks include conducting reconnaissance in various areas and polling centres and informing residents that the administration remains active ahead of the election.
Efforts are underway around the clock to prevent any disorder, the official said, adding that CCTV cameras at polling centres are being checked to ensure they are operational and that electricity connections are functioning properly.
Law enforcement personnel are being monitored to ensure their presence at vulnerable centres, and steps are being taken to facilitate the smooth delivery of ballot boxes, ballot papers and other election materials to polling stations, the official added.
The official also said they are monitoring whether candidates or their supporters are violating the electoral code of conduct.
Another executive magistrate, serving in a divisional city and also speaking to TBS on condition of anonymity, said he is patrolling with BGB members and other law enforcement personnel.
He said he is working to ensure that no unrest or disturbances occur in his assigned constituency ahead of the election.
Suspicious individuals are being questioned, and patrols are being conducted in areas identified as vulnerable, particularly where locals have expressed concerns about potential unrest. Polling centres are also being inspected, he said.
"I stopped at several places where there were public gatherings and spoke with the people. Citizens have been made aware that no group will be allowed to display force or exert influence during the election," the official added.
Earlier, on 3 February, the Ministry of Public Administration issued a notification appointing 1,051 officials with executive magistrate powers for mobile courts under the Election Commission, assigning them duties from 8 February to 14 February across the country.
According to the notification, the mobile courts will perform their duties during the national parliamentary election and referendum in coordination with law enforcement agencies, mobile and striking forces, particularly the BGB and the Coast Guard. Their primary objective is to maintain law and order in electoral areas and prevent crimes.
