As part of a significant nationwide effort to guarantee election security, about 560,000 members of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party (VDP) are ready to conduct election-related tasks at 42,766 polling places around the nation.
A balanced mix of new and experienced members has been deployed at every polling station to improve operational effectiveness, stability, and on-the-spot decision-making at the field level, according to a press release signed today by Bangladesh Ansar and VDP Deputy Director and Public Relations Officer Md. Ashiquzzaman.
Modern technology is also being used to ensure transparency in deployment, food management, and allowance distribution. The force’s own software system is being used to manage pre-election deployment, provide food during duty, and ensure transparent payment and monitoring of election duty allowances directly into members’ accounts. This system is expected to reduce external influence and boost professional motivation.
Through expertise, objectivity, and technology-driven management, the effort seeks to guarantee a free, fair, and safe election, the announcement continued.
Through prompt and organized training sessions, the focus has been on enhancing members’ competencies.
Through advanced and youth leadership efforts, upazila and thana-level Ansar Company Commander training, and village-based VDP programs, about 250,000 members have undergone extensive basic training aimed at bolstering election security.
In a move to effectively harness youth potential, the age limit for training has been revised to 18–25 years from the previous 18–30 years, enabling younger members to contribute with greater physical ability, technical adaptability, and creative capacity.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs has launched the ‘Election Security App’ to strengthen modern election management. The app will enable uninterrupted communication from polling stations to the concerned ministry, allowing real-time reporting, monitoring, and rapid response to any untoward incidents.
Of the 13 members deployed at each polling station, two have been specially assigned to manage the app, ensuring swift action by the nearest patrol team during emergencies. Authorities believe this digital security framework will enhance transparency, accountability, and overall safety during the election process.
In order to successfully conduct the 13th national parliament election and the impending referendum, the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party reaffirmed their dedication to cooperating with other law enforcement organizations.
With explicit instructions to use the national emergency service number 999, even in the event of an internet outage, members will serve as the first line of defense in handling any unforeseen circumstance.
