Almost half of Kurigram's 706 polling centres deemed 'high-risk'

Authorities have identified 351 polling centres in Kurigram district as high-risk out of a total of 706 stations across its four parliamentary constituencies ahead of the 13th National Parliament Election.

Deputy Commissioner Annapurna Debnath disclosed the information at a meeting of the District Law and Order Committee held at the Deputy Commissioner's conference room on today.

She said the district administration is determined to ensure a fair, peaceful and neutral election. Of the total polling centres, 351 have been classified as high-risk, while 14 centres in char areas lack electricity connections. Power supply to those centres will be ensured through generators, she added.

The deputy commissioner also said instructions have been issued to the concerned departments to improve weak internet connectivity in char areas.

Superintendent of Police Khandaker Fazle Rabbi said the upcoming election requires joint cooperation from law enforcement agencies, political parties, journalists and professionals, expressing optimism that an acceptable election can be held with collective efforts.

BGB Commander Lieutenant Colonel Mahbub Ul Haque said 490 BGB members will be deployed to maintain law and order in five upazilas, including Phulbari, Nageshwari, Kurigram Sadar and Ulipur.

Army Camp Commander Major Inzamamul Alam Inzam said 650 army personnel will be deployed to assist in the election process, adding that a list of saboteurs has been prepared and necessary actions are underway.

Participants at the meeting urged all stakeholders to act responsibly to ensure the election is held in a peaceful and festive atmosphere.

Among others, District BNP Convener Mostafizur Rahman, Senior Joint Convener Professor Shafiqul Islam Bebu, District Jamaat Secretary Nizam Uddin, journalist Syed Babu, leaders of various political parties and concerned officials were present.