Chatra Dal besieges Election Commission again over 3-point demands

The Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Chatra Dal has continued its program of besieging the Election Commission (EC) today, Monday (January 19), over three specific issues. The program commenced at 11:00 AM.

On-site observations showed members of the law enforcement agencies maintaining a barricade in front of the EC’s main gate. Chatra Dal leaders and activists took positions on the road in front of the barricade, blocking traffic and chanting slogans.

The three issues raised by the organization are:

1. The Election Commission must immediately resolve the controversy surrounding postal ballots.

2. The Commission must refrain from making "rash and shortsighted" decisions in place of responsible and logical ones, which have questioned the independence and professionalism of the EC.

3. The controversial notification issued regarding the Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) student union (SUCSU) election, allegedly due to the direct influence and interference of a "specific political party," which the group describes as an "ominous sign" for democratic practices.

Previously, the Chatra Dal besieged the Election Commission yesterday as well. Later, a five-member delegation, led by President Rakibul Islam Rakib, held a meeting with the Commissioners. Other members included General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir, Senior Vice President Abu Afsan Mohammad Yahya, Senior Joint General Secretary Shyamal Malum, and Organizational Secretary Amanullah Aman.

After the meeting, Rakibul Islam Rakib addressed the activists, stating that their three demands had been presented. The Commission assured them that the points would be considered logically. Based on this, yesterday’s sit-in was concluded. However, as the demands remained unfulfilled, the program to besiege the Commission was resumed today at 11:00 AM.

The Chatra Dal President further stated that the campaign for the National Parliamentary Election will begin on January 22. He warned that if any "conspiracy or pressure" is applied after that, the organization will not remain silent.

During the program, the road in front of the Election Building was blocked under the leadership of the central committee. At that time, they alleged that a "specific political group" has exerted influence to cause irregularities in ballot papers with the direct instigation of EC officials. The Chatra Dal plans to continue its peaceful sit-in until their demands are implemented.