Police Identify 695 Highly Vulnerable Polling Stations in Dhaka, Vow Action If Disorder Occurs

Police in Dhaka Metropolitan have classified 695 polling stations as highly vulnerable ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliament Election.

Out of 2,131 total centres in the city, these have been identified based on past electoral violence, local tensions and other security concerns. In addition, 1,133 more centres have been marked as risky, with the remainder considered normal.

Authorities say that multiple measures will be in place to ensure peace and prevent any disruption during voting. Police personnel stationed at vulnerable centres will wear body-worn video cameras to record any incidents, and CCTV cameras will also be installed to monitor activities in and around the polling locations. If any disorder or irregularity occurs, officers will take immediate action based on the video evidence.

According to law enforcement officials, the heightened classification reflects challenges seen across the country, where significant portions of polling stations have been labelled as risky. Nationwide, more than one-third of all centres have been identified as potentially vulnerable, prompting extensive security planning.

Police have also undertaken organisational reforms to improve neutrality and preparedness. This includes rotating leadership posts, providing training to rank-and-file members on election conduct, and coordinating security efforts with other forces such as the army, Border Guard Bangladesh, and Ansar units.

While law enforcement insists that preparations aim to ensure a peaceful and fair voting environment, some citizens have expressed concern about potential tension on election day.

Observers note that effective control of law and order will be crucial for delivering a credible election and for enabling voters to exercise their rights without fear.