Sun Dec 14 02:01:13 UTC 2025: News Article:

Bangladesh Election Commission Requests Heightened Security Amid Rising Unrest

Dhaka – The Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh has requested increased security measures for its officials and facilities following escalating violence and threats related to the upcoming parliamentary elections. The request, submitted to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), cites a recent shooting of Sharif Osman Hadi, a parliamentary candidate and prominent figure in last year’s “July Uprising,” as a primary catalyst for concern.

The EC is seeking comprehensive protection for the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Election Commissioners (ECs), and senior secretariat staff, including an additional escort vehicle for the CEC and round-the-clock police escorts for the four commissioners and senior secretary. This request also extends to field offices, two of which have already been attacked since the election schedule was announced on December 11, 2025.

Hadi, a leader of the radical right-wing cultural group Inquiab Mancha, was critically wounded on December 12, 2025, as he launched his campaign. In response, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by critically ill former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is also calling on Muhammad Yunus’ government to ensure the safety of all election candidates.

The attack and the general climate of unrest have prompted the government to launch “Operation Devil Hunt 2,” a nationwide security clampdown aimed at combating illegal arms and ensuring public safety. The government has also promised to issue firearms licenses to election candidates for their personal protection. Home adviser (retd) Lieutenant General Jahangir Alam Chowdhury stated that special security would be provided to frontline fighters of the July Uprising. The Election Commission announced that the parliamentary elections will be held on February 12 of next year.

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