Upazila polls: 2nd phase voting underway in several districts

Upazila polls: 2nd phase voting underway in several districts

Dhaka, May 21 - Voting in the second phase of Upazila Parishad election began today at 8 am and it will continue until 4 pm.

In Khulna district, among 138 polling centres in Terokhada, Dighalia and Fultala upazilas, police have identified 95 as important and 43 as general.

Of the total polling stations, 69 percent are considered important. Security has been beefed up at important centers.

According to the Returning Officer's office, there are 43 polling centers in Terokhada upazila, 52 in Dighalia and 43 in Fultala.

Khulna Superintendent of Police Mohammad Saidur Rahman said that there will be enhanced security and surveillance at important centres, but there will be no shortage of security at the general centres either.

In Barishal, voting began at 121 centres in 13 unions of Hijla and Muladi upazilas.

However, voter turnout is seemingly low. Agents at these centres said that although the voter turnout is low in the morning, it will change as the day progresses.

Barishal district Superintendent of Police Wahidul Islam informed that security has been ensured for the upazila election. Out of 121 centres, 73 have been identified as important.

Also, 4 platoons of BGB have been deployed, he added.

Gangni Upazila Parishad election in Meherpur is being held smoothly.

According to the Assistant Returning Officer, voting is being held in 107 polling centres. Of the polling stations, 30 have been identified as very important.

The district administration, police and the Election Commission have completed all preparations to make the election festive, neutral and free.

Voting is also being held in Katiadi, Nikli and Austagram upazilas of Kishoreganj and Biral, Bochaganj, Birganj and Kaharole upazilas of Dinajpur district.

Ansar and police have been deployed at Kishoreganj polling centres to ensure a free and fair election.

In Dinajpur, police, Ansar, RAB, BGB and executive magistrates have been deployed to the polling centers for the security of voters.-UNB