EC plans 3-tier law enforcement deployment for national polls
Alongside this, mobile units will conduct regular surveillance on a rotational basis
The Election Commission (EC) has finalised a comprehensive three-tier security plan for law enforcement agencies ahead of the upcoming national elections, focusing on static deployment, mobile surveillance and a central reserve force.
Following a high-level preparatory meeting with all law enforcement agencies at the Election Building in Agargaon today (27 November), Election Commission Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed briefed the media on the overall preparations.
The home ministry secretary was also present at the meeting.
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Akhtar Ahmed said the security strategy will consist of permanent or static deployment of personnel at polling centres, supported by both permanent and temporary check posts, including mobile check posts, set up at various strategic locations.
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Alongside this, mobile units will conduct regular surveillance on a rotational basis.
"Each force will determine how many centres a mobile team will cover, depending on geography, road connectivity and other relevant considerations. A central reserve force will remain on standby as the main rapid-response unit, while the traditional special Striking Force will also be kept ready for swift intervention," said the EC secretary.
He added that the cyber security system used during NTMC operations and religious festivals will likewise be activated.
The EC secretary noted that the home ministry will have primary responsibility for supervising election-related law and order, issuing the necessary policies and guidelines as in previous elections.
The Election Commission will oversee overall coordination and monitoring, and will form a monitoring cell for this purpose, he said, adding that the size of the cell will be decided later based on suggestions from the relevant agencies.
Responding to a question about the armed forces' magistracy power, currently in effect, Akhtar Ahmed said the armed forces are now under the definition of law enforcement agencies. "Their (armed forces' magistracy power will remain valid until February 2026," he said.
To counter misinformation, a cyber security cell will be established to monitor various media platforms. This cell will use the UNDP platform and work in coordination with the Information Ministry, CID and other agencies capable of verifying information.
The secretary also announced enhanced security measures for postal ballots arriving from abroad.
"Double-layer security will be maintained at airports and at the Tejgaon postal sorting center, with strict protection ensured throughout every stage—from sorting, to delivery to returning officers, to storage and counting," he said.
