In preparation for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election, the Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh has finalised a draft proposing boundary redefinitions in 39 parliamentary constituencies. The official gazette notification is scheduled to be published on 31 July, according to EC Commissioner Anwarul Islam Sarkar, who disclosed the information during a press conference held on Wednesday (30 July) at the Election Commission Headquarters in Dhaka.
Overview of Proposed Changes
The commission had initially reviewed 42 constituencies for potential adjustments, ultimately approving minor changes in 39 of them. Citizens and stakeholders will have until 10 August to submit any objections or claims regarding the draft.
| Data | Details |
| Total constituencies reviewed | 42 |
| Constituencies with approved changes | 39 (minor modifications only) |
| Deadline for objections | 10 August |
| Gazette publication date | 31 July |
| No. of constituencies without change requests | Approx. 250 |
| Districts with no scope for division | Constituencies 1, 2, and 3 (due to geographical or demographic factors) |
District-Level Adjustments
The draft suggests a seat increase in Gazipur, while one seat will be reduced in Bagerhat. This redistribution aims to reflect changes in voter demographics and ensure balanced representation.
| District | Proposed Change |
| Gazipur | Increase by 1 seat |
| Bagerhat | Decrease by 1 seat |
The commission has stated that in districts with the highest number of voters, there are proposals to increase constituencies, whereas in areas with the lowest voter density, the number of constituencies may be reduced.
Technical Committee and Review Process
On 16 July, the EC formed a nine-member technical committee to analyse and assess the number and boundaries of constituencies based on the current voter distribution. The committee concluded that in nearly 250 constituencies, no applications for boundary redefinition were received, and thus, existing boundaries will remain unchanged.
Commissioner Anwarul Islam noted:
“There is no opportunity to divide districts corresponding to Constituencies 1, 2, and 3. Therefore, no boundary expansion or reduction has been proposed for these.”
Significance of the Redistricting
Political analysts regard this boundary revision as a strategic and necessary step in ensuring a fair and organised general election. Once the objection period concludes, the Election Commission will publish the final constituency boundaries based on feedback and official considerations.
This redistricting process is seen as a critical part of the broader election preparation framework, ensuring that representation remains proportionate and equitable as per evolving voter demographics.
