EC probes polling centre relocation after Observer report

RANGPUR, Oct 27: Election Commission officials have investigated a controversial proposal to relocate a polling centre in Gangachara upazila of Rangpur following objections from local residents.

On Tuesday, the officials visited Saudpara Government Primary School and Chilkhal Government Primary School in Kolkond Union and heard from residents supporting and opposing the proposed relocation.

The investigation came after The Daily Observer published a report on October 25 under the headline “Polling Centre Shift Sparks Controversy in Rangpur”.

Local residents said voting had been held at Saudpara Government Primary School for more than 30 years. They alleged that the move to shift the centre to Chilkhal Government Primary School was initiated without consulting voters.

They fear the relocation would cause additional hardship for women, elderly people and voters with illnesses or mobility difficulties. Residents have submitted a written application to the authorities seeking reconsideration of the decision.

Abdul Gaffar and Jahedul Islam, who were present at Saudpara Government Primary School, said the proposed new centre was less accessible and urged the authorities to retain the existing venue.

Residents also questioned the suitability of Chilkhal Government Primary School, which has been affected by erosion along the Teesta River. They said limited access for rickshaws and vans could force many voters to walk to the centre and raised concerns about emergency response arrangements.

However, Habibur Rahman and Abdul Halim, who were present at Chilkhal Government Primary School, said the authorities had decided to change the centre but stressed that voter accessibility and the polling environment should be considered.