Staff Reporter :
Election Commissioner Mahbub Talukder on Wednesday urged the members of law enforcement agencies to discharge their duties neutrally and without discrimination to all.
“Don’t take any undesirable action by being too enthusiastic,” the Commissioner said, adding, “It is your duty to show neutrality in your duties to all.”
“Refrain from acting in a partisan manner in the polls. Uphold the dignity and righteousness of your uniform,” Mahbub Talukder said.
He also expressed serious concern at the rising incidents of violence and terrorism ahead of national election scheduled for December 30.
“Election and clash can’t go together,” he told newsmen in a written statement at his office in the Election Bhaban.
Mahbub Talukder, whose difference of opinion with Chief Election Commissioner KM Nurul Huda has come to the fore in recent times, expressed his views that it is not enough to hold a participatory polls, rather the election has to be made free, fair, neutral and lawful.
He appealed to the members of the law enforcing agencies not to commit excesses.
“We would not be able to emerge as a nation with self-respect if we fail to hold an acceptable and credible election,” the election commissioner said.
“You are the largest supportive force in the electoral process. It’s your responsibility to follow equitable principle and carry out duties neutrally. Please refrain from behaving in a biased manner,” he said apparently addressing the law enforcement.
He further said: “We don’t want to be stigmatised by holding a questionable election. No matter who wins the polls, it has to be ensured that the countrymen are not defeated.”
The election commissioner’s statement came in the wake of massive allegations of attacks on the opposition candidates and filing of ‘fictitious’ cases and arrest of their leaders and activists randomly.
He also urged all the election officials including the returning officers to uphold their “consciousness in performing their responsibilities in this crucial time of the nation”.
He called upon the countrymen to go to the polling centres without fear and cast their votes for their desired candidates.
“Do not bow down to fear or be lured. Come to the polling centres without fear and cast your votes for your desired candidate. Your single vote will protect the democracy,” he said.
“Please remember, this election is for upholding our self-respect, and to build a beautiful future for the next generation and your children,” EC Mahbub Talukder added.
