No braille ballots for visually impaired students in Jucsu polls

Concerns have arisen among visually impaired students at Jahangirnagar University as the administration has yet to introduce a braille voting system for the upcoming Jahangirnagar University Central Students' Union (Jucsu) election.

Meanwhile, the Dhaka University authorities have decided to introduce braille ballot papers for students with visual impairments in the upcoming Ducsu elections.

Speaking to The Business Standard today (2 September), Jucsu Chief Election Commissioner Md Moniruzzaman said implementing Braille within the limited time frame was not feasible. 

"As with examinations, where visually impaired students can take the help of writers, they will similarly be able to cast their votes with assistance. We will ensure that the helpers remain unbiased," he said.

However, candidates and student groups argue that such arrangements fall short of ensuring equal participation. 

Mazharul Islam, Islami Chhatra Shibir's general secretary candidate, said, "The Braille system is vital for visually impaired students to exercise their voting rights independently. We urged the administration to implement it. While the election commission listened to our suggestions, we are yet to see any visible measures. We hope proper arrangements will still be made."