Char Fasson secondary schools still remain unrepaired for polls 

 
CHAR FASSON, BHOLA, Feb 1: Preparations for polling centres in Bhola-4 (Char Fasson-Monpura) constituency have started ahead of the 13th parliamentary elections, but allegations of discrimination in fund allocation have emerged. 

While primary schools received repair funds, critical and dilapidated secondary schools and madrasas designated as polling centres have not received any budget.

According to the Upazila Election Office, Char Fasson has 130 polling centres-76 in primary schools and 54 in secondary schools, madrasas and higher secondary institutions. For this election, 42 primary schools were allocated  Tk 150,000 each to cover repairs including doors, windows, lights, fans, sanitation and electrical equipment.

However, many secondary schools and madrasas, some in poor and unsafe conditions, have received no funding. Teachers and locals expressed concern that preparations are underway in old and risky buildings, putting voter safety at stake.

Upazila Secondary Education Officer Mir A K M Abul Khair said, "Many secondary polling centres are in dilapidated condition, but no funds have been allocated yet." Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Assistant Returning Officer Lokman Hossain added that requests have been made to higher authorities, but no budget has been received.

Observers warned that such uncertainty over polling infrastructure could affect voter safety and the smooth conduct of elections.