BAGERHAT, Jan 21, 2026 (BSS) - Ahead of the upcoming 13th national parliamentary elections, election symbols were officially allocated among 23 candidates contesting from four parliamentary constituencies in Bagerhat district today.

Following the symbol allocation, a law and order meeting was held at 11:30 am at the conference room of the Bagerhat Deputy Commissioner's office to ensure a free, fair and impartial election. 

The meeting was chaired by Bagerhat Deputy Commissioner and District Returning Officer Golam Md. Baten. Among others, Army representative Major Ashraf, Police Superintendent Hasan Chowdhury and District Election Officer Muhammad Abu Ansar addressed the meeting.

Speakers said a robust and comprehensive security arrangement will be put in place across Bagerhat district to ensure peaceful conduct of the national elections scheduled for February 12. The security framework will involve coordinated deployment of the Army, Navy, Police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Ansar, DSB and CID. Law enforcement agencies will remain on high alert before, during and after the elections to prevent violence, disorder and the spread of rumors.

The speakers further emphasized that the administration has adopted a strict "zero tolerance" policy regarding any violation of the election code of conduct. They warned that stern legal action will be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt the election process or take the law into their own hands during campaigning, voting or the post-election period.

The meeting urged the administration, political parties, candidates and independent contenders in Bagerhat's four constituencies to act responsibly and with tolerance in order to uphold democratic values and contribute to building a prosperous and democratic Bangladesh.

Later, Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Golam Md. Baten formally allotted election symbols to the 23 candidates one by one.

Senior district government officials, candidates from various political parties and representatives of the media were also present at the ceremony.