EC orders enhanced security at offices of ROs and AROs prior to polls
At present, there are 69 returning officers and around 500 assistant returning officers nationwide.
The Election Commission (EC) has ordered the deployment of police personnel to strengthen security at the offices of returning officers and assistant returning officers across the country ahead of the 13th national election.
To ensure the safety of sensitive election documents, polling materials and officials, the EC has sent a letter to the senior secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, requesting necessary directives for police deployment at the concerned offices.
The letter, signed by EC Deputy Secretary Mohammad Monir Hossain, was issued today (18 December).
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
At present, there are 69 returning officers and around 500 assistant returning officers nationwide.
The commission has also sought additional security measures for the chief election commissioner, including an extra escort vehicle during the election period. Enhanced, round-the-clock security has also been requested for the residences and offices of the four election commissioners and the senior secretary as well.
The EC noted that the election schedule for the 13th national polls was announced on 11 December and that notifications appointing returning and assistant returning officers have already been issued to ensure a free and fair election.
"As important election-related documents, materials and equipment are stored at the offices of returning officers and assistant returning officers, it is essential to ensure the security of these offices, as well as the safety of the officials and employees, considering the law and order situation during the election period," the letter said.
In this context, the EC requested the deployment of an adequate number of police personnel to maintain security at the offices of returning and assistant returning officers.
According to the announced schedule, the deadline for submitting nomination papers is 29 December, scrutiny of nominations will take place from 30 December to 4 January, and the last date for withdrawal of candidacy is 20 January. The final list of candidates and symbol allocation will be published on 21 January. Election campaigning will run from 22 January until 7:30am on 10 February.
The parliamentary election and referendum are scheduled to be held on 12 February.
Security has already been tightened at the Election Commission building in Agargaon and at election offices nationwide. With the latest decision, security at the offices of returning and assistant returning officers has also been further strengthened.
