Dhaka Identifies 37 High-Risk Polling Stations

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has identified 37 polling stations in the city as high-risk ahead of upcoming elections, as part of a comprehensive security plan to ensure safe and orderly voting. DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali confirmed that special measures have been implemented at these locations, including the deployment of body cameras and additional police personnel.

Speaking at a press conference at the DMP Media Centre on Monday (9 February), titled “Security Arrangements by DMP for Elections and Referendum”, the Commissioner provided detailed insights into the police deployment strategy across the capital. He stated that Dhaka has a total of 1,614 significant polling stations, each manned by four police officers, while 517 regular polling stations have three officers assigned to maintain security.

The 37 high-risk stations, however, will have a strengthened presence of seven officers per station, each equipped with body cameras to provide real-time monitoring. Commissioner Ali further noted that all 25,000 DMP personnel have completed specialised election security training. To respond to any emergencies, additional units—including the Special Reserve Force, Bomb Disposal Unit, and Dog Squad—will remain on standby.

Additional Police Commissioners Sarwar (Admin) and S.M. Nazrul Islam were also present at the briefing. Commissioner Ali expressed confidence that the precision and enhanced security measures would facilitate a peaceful and transparent voting process.

The table below summarises the DMP’s deployment plan across Dhaka’s polling stations:

These arrangements form part of Dhaka’s broader preparations for the 13th parliamentary elections. Security measures have been extended to all constituencies in the district, from Dhaka-1 to Dhaka-20, ensuring that each polling station is adequately safeguarded.

Commissioner Ali emphasised that DMP officers are authorised to intervene directly in the event of any violent incidents or security threats. With rigorous planning and comprehensive monitoring, the authorities aim to guarantee a fully transparent and secure voting process throughout the capital.