Bangladesh votes amid some localised disturbances; first-time voters praise smooth process

Bangladesh voted on Thursday in its 13th parliamentary elections amid a largely calm atmosphere at polling booths, even as isolated incidents of violence and disturbances were reported from a few locations.

Across several constituencies, voters, including a large number of first-time participants, turned up early, forming long queues outside polling centres from as early as 6 am. Many first-time voters described the process as smooth, well-managed and peaceful, praising clear ballot papers, orderly arrangements and adequate security.




At a polling centre in Gulshan, Dhaka, voters said the voting process was simple and efficient, with booths organised to avoid overcrowding. Several women voters also said they felt safe inside polling centres and did not encounter any barriers while casting their votes. Security arrangements in the area were described as satisfactory, with no signs of unrest reported at the site.

However, polling was briefly disrupted at some centres due to localised violence. In Gopalganj Sadar, a crude bomb exploded at the Reshma International School polling centre around 9 am, injuring two security personnel and a 13-year-old child and damaging the main gate of the facility, officials said. Police said miscreants threw the bomb from across a nearby canal while voting was underway. Authorities said the situation was brought under control and voting continued.

A similar incident was reported from Munshiganj’s Mollakandi Union, where a crude bomb exploded at a polling centre, followed by a brief chase between rival supporters. Police said supporters of a BNP-backed candidate and an independent candidate were involved, though no injuries were immediately confirmed.

Meanwhile, in Khulna, BNP Metropolitan leader Mohibuzzaman Kochi, 60, died after collapsing at a polling centre following a scuffle, police and party sources said. Officials said law enforcement personnel were immediately deployed and voting continued at the centre.

Despite the isolated incidents, election officials said polling was proceeding across the country. Bangladesh has nearly 127 million eligible voters, including about 4.57 million first-time voters. The Election Commission said counting will begin after voting ends at 4 pm, with results expected on February 13.

(With inputs from agencies)