DHAKA, Jan 26, 2026 (BSS) - The Election Commission (EC) has directed presiding officers and other responsible officials to arrange adequate lighting at polling and counting centers to facilitate smooth voting in the upcoming National Parliamentary Elections and the Referendum.

It has also asked to ensure alternative lighting arrangements in advance in case of power outages.

The directives were issued in a circular, signed by Mohammad Monir Hossain, Deputy Secretary (Election Management-2 Branch) of the Election Commission Secretariat, on Saturday. 

The circular states that inadequate lighting is not acceptable in any way. Proper illumination is essential for the correct casting of votes on ballot papers, preservation of ballots in ballot boxes, verification of ballot papers and accurate completion of each step of vote counting. 

To guarantee voters' right to vote freely and confidentially, the EC directed that designated secret rooms (marking places) be set up in each polling center. These rooms must be clean, well-lit, secure, and arranged so that voters can enter and exit without obstruction. 

The circular further states that contesting candidates, or anyone acting on their behalf, will not be permitted to set up election camps within a 400-yard radius of a polling center. Any campaign materials such as posters, leaflets, or handbills within this perimeter must be removed before voting begins. 

Strict monitoring has been ordered to ensure that none can canvass for votes or encourage or discourage voting. 

No candidates, their election agents, polling agents or supporters will be allowed to use any type of vehicle to transport voters to the polling centre. Legal action will be taken against those who violate the electoral code of conduct, the circular stated. 

The EC emphasized that all instructions must be strictly followed on polling day.