Dhaka: The Election Commission (EC) has unveiled the Polling Station Setup and Management Guidelines-2025 to streamline the administration of local government elections across the country. This initiative aims to ensure the smooth conduct of elections by focusing on the strategic placement and management of polling stations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the guidelines were released through a circular signed by the EC's Deputy Secretary Dewan Md. Sarwar Jahan, subsequent to their official gazette publication on June 26. The guidelines categorize elections involving City Corporations, Zila Parishads, Upazila Parishads, Pourasavas, and Union Parishads as highly significant and sensitive, underscoring the importance of selecting optimal locations for polling stations to guarantee free, fair, and impartial elections.
The EC emphasizes that the fair conduct of elections largely hinges on determining polling station locations devoid of undue influence from individuals, groups, or parties. Additionally, voter-friendly infrastructure and accessibility are crucial considerations for station placement.
For City Corporation elections, the guidelines specify that the Senior District Election Officer or the District Election Officer must submit a list of proposed polling stations to the EC through the concerned Regional Election Officer. The list should clearly outline the specific areas where voters will cast their votes, with the finalized list being published in the Official Gazette at least 15 days before the election.
In the case of Zila Parishad elections, under the Zila Parishad Act, 2000, proposed polling stations for each ward must be submitted to the Commission. The EC retains the authority to amend or finalize the list at least 15 days before the election date.
The guidelines for Upazila Parishad elections require submission of proposed polling stations for the election of Chairman and Vice Chairman through the concerned Regional Election Officer. The final list, subject to revisions by the EC, must be published in the Official Gazette at least 15 days before the election.
For Paurashava elections, proposed polling stations must be sent to the Election Commission with clear details of voting areas. The finalized list is required to be published at least 25 days before the election date.
Union Parishad elections follow a similar procedure, with a finalized list of polling stations to be locally published and shared with the Election Commission at least 25 days prior to the election.
The guidelines further stipulate that polling stations and booths should be established based on voter numbers, with one polling station for every 2,000 voters, and specific booth allocations for male and female voters. For by-elections, the booth setup may vary slightly based on practical needs. Each general ward is required to have at least one polling station within its boundaries, although more stations may be established if necessary.
These comprehensive guidelines by the EC are designed to enhance the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process in local government elections, ensuring that voters can exercise their rights in a secure and accessible manner.