Reporter's diary: The energy and spirit of voting in Old Dhaka

Mornings in Old Dhaka are naturally cheerful. The day begins with a distinctly classic atmosphere. The narrow lanes echo with nostalgia for history and heritage, blended with the vibrancy of local life — a defining feature of the area.

This morning, however, added something special to the usual routine, as the 13th parliamentary election is underway. While colourful breakfasts and steaming cups of tea still fueled lively roadside conversations, today's national election has created a different kind of mood.

Walking through the alleys of Sutrapur, Wari, Gendaria and Kotwali this morning revealed a slightly altered rhythm. Some were heading to polling centres with family members. Others stood in groups discussing candidates and their promises. The early rush to cast ballots injected energy into the lanes from the first hours of the day.

As the morning progressed, tea stalls grew busier with political discussions. Hopes of victory for preferred candidates floated through the air. Altogether, the national election has become a fresh occasion for these sociable residents to exchange views.
Small crowds were seen in front of polling centres.

Some stood in line, others waited, while those who had already voted came out excitedly showing the ink mark on their fingers. Twenty-two-year-old Gen-Z voter Ashraful Islam cast his ballot at Central Women's College centre in the Tikatuli area of Dhaka-6.

"I am happy to be voting for the first time in my life. It feels very good," he said, adding that he also voted in the referendum according to his choice.

At the Kishorelal Jubilee School and College centre in the Sadarghat area, 23-year-old voter Mithila Akter also cast her vote for the first time. She was seen leaving the centre cheerfully with her mother and a friend. 

Sharing her experience with The Business Standard, Mithila said, "I've been very excited since yesterday. There was a bit of concern about security, but so far nothing has happened. I feel very good to have voted smoothly."

Alongside the enthusiasm of new voters, a sense of responsibility among elderly voters added to the festive atmosphere. Ashraful Haque, a voter in his sixties, came to vote at Narinda Government Primary School centre. A note of regret over the long absence of credible national elections was evident in his voice, yet he expressed hope about this year's vote. 

"It feels good to regain my right to vote after so long. I hadn't been able to vote for many years. That's why I came early with great interest. I hope today's vote will conclude peacefully," he said.

Amid the festive mood, however, caution was also visible. Patrols by law enforcement agencies and controlled entry at polling centres reflected efforts to maintain order. Yet the spontaneous participation of voters has given Old Dhaka a vibrant appearance.

DIG Md Shahabuddin of Wari Division said the election in Old Dhaka is being held in a festive environment. "We hope there will be no lapses in security in the coming hours," he added.

These reporters also visited Dhaka College, Dhaka City College and Government Laboratory School in the Dhaka-10 constituency, followed by Lalbagh Model School and College as well as Rahmatullah High School.

The visits showed a satisfactory turnout of voters. No reports of major disorder or violence were received.