Serious allegations of electoral fraud, sabotage and criminal misconduct have surfaced across Bangladesh during the latest round of voting, with leaders and activists of Jamaat-e-Islami accused of orchestrating a range of irregularities that have shaken confidence in the electoral process.
From the capital Dhaka to Cumilla and Dhankunda, multiple media outlets reported incidents including alleged pre-stamping of ballot papers before voting began, secret meetings inside presiding officers’ rooms, stockpiling of crude weapons, vote-buying, and advance signing of result sheets.
Allegations of Pre-Stamped Ballots in Dhankunda
One of the most alarming incidents was reported at the Dhankunda Popular Primary School polling centre. According to eyewitness accounts and videos circulating on social media, preparations were allegedly made overnight to stamp ballot papers before the official start of voting.
Local residents claimed that a former Jamaat amir was present inside the presiding officer’s room late at night. In one widely shared video, voices can be heard alleging that ballot stamping preparations had already been completed before polls opened. Protesters demanded the immediate replacement of the entire election management team at the centre, accusing officials of collusion.
Election authorities have not yet issued a detailed statement addressing the specific claims.
Arrests Over Vote Buying and Code Violations in Dhaka
In Dhaka’s Mirpur area, two polling agents affiliated with Jamaat were reportedly detained and fined by a mobile court for attempting to influence voters inside a polling centre.
Separate reports alleged that a Jamaat leader was caught distributing cash to voters in an effort to sway the outcome. He was subsequently sentenced by a mobile court, according to local television channels.
Officials said such actions constitute violations of electoral conduct rules and undermine the fairness of the vote.
Weapons Seized in Cumilla
Law enforcement agencies in Cumilla claimed to have uncovered a cache of materials used for making crude explosives and locally made weapons during a raid on a fishery project allegedly owned by a Jamaat leader.
Authorities said they suspect the items were stockpiled to create panic and assert control over polling centres on election day. An investigation is ongoing to determine whether the materials were directly linked to any planned disruption.
Alleged Advance Signing of Result Sheets
In another reported incident, 23 result sheets allegedly bearing the signature of an agent representing the “Scales” electoral symbol were seized before vote counting began. Observers described the matter as a potential case of attempted result manipulation, though election officials have yet to release an official explanation.
Attempted Sexual Assault Allegation
Beyond allegations of electoral misconduct, a deeply disturbing accusation emerged involving an alleged attempted sexual assault. A report claimed that a housewife was pressured to vote for the “Scales” symbol. When she refused, local activists allegedly attempted to assault her.
Law enforcement authorities have not publicly confirmed the details of the case, but the allegation has sparked outrage on social media and among rights groups, who called for a thorough and impartial investigation.
Growing Public Concern
While several individuals have reportedly been arrested or fined in connection with the incidents, public anxiety remains high. Civil society members and election observers warn that such allegations—if proven—could significantly damage public trust in the electoral system.
Political analysts say that ensuring transparency, swift investigation, and strict enforcement of electoral law will be critical in preventing further unrest and maintaining confidence in the democratic process.
Authorities have urged voters to remain calm and report any irregularities through official channels as voting and counting continue.
