Violence, Cash Seizures Mar Bangladesh Polls

Over 400 incidents reported as tensions spike ahead of February 12 vote

February 12, 2026: Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections have been overshadowed by widespread violence, intimidation and alleged electoral malpractice, raising concerns over voter safety and the credibility of the process. More than 400 incidents linked to poll-related unrest were reported nationwide between December and February, with fresh cases surfacing in the final 24 hours before the February 12 vote. In Barisal’s Babuganj upazila, army personnel detained two men identified as BNP activists, allegedly carrying 102,000 taka in cash and election slips. The army said it was acting in a “professional and neutral” manner to maintain peace during the election period.

Violence and allegations of voter intimidation have emerged from several districts. In Bogura, a BNP student wing leader was stabbed near a polling centre, while in Khulna-5, a local Jamaat leader was accused of threatening Hindu voters against supporting rival parties. Authorities have also cracked down on alleged vote-buying, arresting individuals and seizing large sums of cash in Old Dhaka, Lakshmipur and Shariatpur. In Thakurgaon-3, two Jatiya Party leaders were fined for allegedly distributing money to influence voters.

Security concerns escalated further after two crude bombs exploded near polling centres in Gopalganj. Law enforcement agencies, including police and joint forces, have intensified raids and detentions to curb malpractice. However, the scattered yet widespread nature of the incidents highlights the scale of the challenge in ensuring a free, fair and peaceful election across the country.