Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, Jan 28, 2026 (BSS)- Ahead of the upcoming 13th National 
Parliamentary Election, Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Returning Officer (RO) 
Afia Akhtar has stated that the administration will maintain strict 
monitoring at every stage of election campaigning. 

She said there is no alternative to strict compliance with the election code 
of conduct in order to ensure a free, fair, and acceptable election. 

She made these remarks while presiding over an exchange-of-views meeting with 
contesting candidates from the district's six parliamentary constituencies, 
held this afternoon at the conference room of the District Administrator's 
Office.

Returning Officer Afia Akhtar said that all forms of election campaigning-
whether on the ground or online-fall under the election code of conduct. 

Election camps, billboards, posters, and campaigning on social media must all 
follow prescribed rules, including providing information and obtaining prior 
approval. 

She warned that no violation of the code of conduct would be tolerated.

In his welcome address, Additional DC Mohinul Hasan outlined important 
guidelines regarding compliance with the code of conduct for the candidates. 

He said candidates must inform the authorities of their action plans in a 
timely manner. Rules related to fixing the venue and time for manifesto 
declarations, postal ballot procedures, and the appointment of election and 
polling agents must be properly followed. 

He also emphasized the need to notify the relevant authorities in writing 
before organizing public rallies, street meetings, or gatherings.

At the meeting, it was informed that in connection with the Jatiya Sangsad 
(JS) election scheduled for 12 February, contesting candidates in the 
district's six constituencies must submit to the Returning Officer the total 
number of all election camps and billboards set up in their respective 
constituencies, along with their exact locations. 

This information will be used to define the limits of campaigning and further 
strengthen monitoring activities. 

Strict instructions were also issued regarding campaigning on social media. 

Candidates must submit in writing to the Returning Officer the names of the 
social media platforms they use, details of verified accounts, and relevant 
links. 

The meeting noted that fake accounts, misleading information, or provocative 
content pose a threat to the election environment, and the administration 
will follow a "zero tolerance" policy in this regard.

At the end of the meeting, the candidates assured that they would conduct 
their election activities in accordance with the administration's directives. 

The Rajshahi District Administration said that ensuring orderly and 
transparent campaigning will increase voter confidence and help make the 
election peaceful and acceptable.