Election Commissioners Md Alamgir and Rasheda Sultana have confirmed that the forthcoming 12th national election in Bangladesh will not be monitored through the installation of CCTV cameras within polling centers. This decision was disclosed on Sunday, August 6, 2023, during separate interactions with the press. Addressing concerns about security in potentially risky centers, Election Commissioner Alamgir explained that the vast number of polling centers – approximately four lakh across 300 constituencies – makes comprehensive CCTV monitoring logistically challenging. Instead, special security measures will be implemented in these vulnerable areas, including increased deployment of law enforcement personnel. He emphasized the role of political parties in maintaining order during the elections, underscoring that their collective efforts contribute significantly to upholding discipline.
Concurrently, Election Commissioner Rasheda Sultana echoed this stance, stating that the election commission will not employ CCTV cameras for surveillance during the upcoming 12th parliamentary election. Speaking from her election office at Agargaon in the capital, Sultana clarified that there exists no legal mandate obligating the use of CCTV cameras in the electoral process. Consequently, the commission is not bound to incorporate such technology.
This decision comes as a response to concerns raised regarding the feasibility of monitoring an extensive number of polling centers through CCTV cameras. While acknowledging the potential benefits of enhanced surveillance, the election commissioners have opted for alternative security strategies, signaling their intent to maintain a balanced and secure environment for the impending election.
