Independent candidate Selim alleges intimidation, calls for fair polls 

 
BAGERHAT, Feb 6: Independent candidate and former BNP lawmaker AAH Selim has alleged that his supporters in Bagerhat are facing continuous attacks and intimidation during the ongoing 13th parliamentary election. At a press conference held at Bagerhat Press Club on Friday, Selim's election coordinator Mahbubur Rahman Tutul claimed that BNP-backed men, aided by hired goons, have been assaulting workers, vandalising campaign offices, and destroying motorcycles.

Tutul, also secretary of Bagerhat Red Crescent Society, said two of Selim's workers, Riyad and Murad, were beaten in Gopalpur area of Kachua Upazila on Friday morning, and their motorcycles were damaged. He added that similar incidents have occurred in Karapara, Sixty Dome Mosque area, Baruipara, Jatrabari, Khanpur and Bishnupur unions, leaving minority voters and Selim's supporters in fear.

He alleged that notorious criminals have been brought in from Khulna, Jashore and Narail to intensify the violence, accusing the local administration of siding with BNP candidates. Tutul urged the chief adviser and election commission to replace officials overseeing polls in Bagerhat to ensure a fair environment.

Lawyer MA Sabur, representing Selim, also spoke at the press conference. Contacted, Bagerhat returning officer and deputy commissioner Golam Mohammad Baten said all complaints are being investigated and incidents are under review.