Voting is underway peacefully in the district with a noticeable presence of women voters. Photo: BSS

CHAPAINAWABGANJ, Feb 12, 2026 (BSS) - Voting is underway peacefully in the district with a noticeable presence of women voters and an atmosphere of enthusiasm across the constituencies.

Polling for the 13th National Parliament Election and Referendum began at 7:30 am Thursday and is being conducted simultaneously in 515 polling centers across the district's three constituencies. 

According to the District Election Office, 14,29,660 voters are eligible to cast their votes. A visit to various polling centers confirmed a normal and orderly voting environment. 

District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Shahadat Hossain Masud assured that all preparations have been made for fair voting. "The army, BGB, police, RAB, and Ansar are working in coordination to ensure smooth polling," he said.

Out of the 515 polling centers, 115 have been designated as key centers. Each center has been provided with 16 Ansar members, one armed policeman, and two unarmed policemen, with 22 executive magistrates also on duty across the district.

Voters expressed excitement and satisfaction. Khairul Islam, a first-time voter from Government High School polling center in Shibganj upazila, said, "I am 38 years old and could not vote in the last three elections. This time, I am voting for the first time in my life. It feels wonderful, like the joy of Eid."

90-year-old Akali Mandal, also standing in line, shared, "I came after breakfast and saw a very long queue. Even then, I am still standing to vote. It feels very good to exercise my right after many years."

Reports from polling centers indicate a peaceful and orderly environment, with voters entering freely and law enforcement actively maintaining security. According to preliminary data from 20 to 25 centers, around 50 percent of voters had cast their ballots by 2 pm.

The district administration continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that the remainder of the day's voting proceeds smoothly.