EC warns of NID blocking, criminal charges for sharing postal vote information on social media

The Election Commission (EC) has warned that voters who share photos, videos or any information related to their postal voting on social media may face punitive action, including the blocking of their National Identity Cards (NID) and possible criminal prosecution.

Election Commissioner Md Anwarul Islam Sarker told The Business Standard today (3 January) that voters casting ballots through the postal system will be required to sign an undertaking to ensure the secrecy of their vote.

"If a voter fails to submit the undertaking, the postal vote will not be counted," he said.

He further stated that if any voter is found to have shared images or information related to postal voting on social media and can be identified, the EC will block their NID.

"If necessary, criminal cases may also be filed against them for breaching the secrecy of the vote," he added.

Under the arrangements for the 13th national parliamentary election, expatriate Bangladeshis, voters engaged in election duties, government employees posted outside their constituencies, and voters in legal custody can register for postal voting through the "Postal Vote BD" app.

To receive postal ballots by mail, expatriate voters are required to provide their correct overseas address. The EC has also advised that, if necessary, voters may use the address of a friend or relative, or that of a nearby well-known institution or building.

In a separate message issued today, the EC reiterated that maintaining the secrecy of postal votes is both a right and a responsibility of voters.

Sharing voting information or images or videos of ballots on social media is a punishable offence under the law, the commission said, adding that violators will face NID blocking and other legal measures.

According to the latest data available on the EC website as of 9:30pm tonight, a total of 1,291,035 voters have registered to participate in the national election and referendum.