Rallies in 13 constituencies banned for 96 hours

Authorities have imposed a 96-hour ban on rallies and processions in Dhaka ahead of the February 12 national election and referendum.

The restriction will apply to parliamentary constituencies Dhaka-4 to Dhaka-12, Dhaka-14, and Dhaka-16 to Dhaka-18, effective from 7:30am on February 10 to 4:30pm on February 14.

The ban covers all public meetings, marches and processions for 48 hours before the start of polling and 48 hours after voting ends for the 13th national parliamentary election and referendum.

The restriction was announced in a public notice issued on Sunday and signed by Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, Dhaka divisional commissioner and returning officer.

Polling will take place on February 12 from 7:30am to 4:30pm.

Citing Article 78 of the Representation of the People Order, 1972, the notice said no individual will be allowed to convene, organise, participate in or attend any public meeting, rally, march or procession in the concerned constituencies during the restricted period.

The notice also said no person will be allowed to engage in any aggressive activity or disorderly conduct in the election areas. Threats or intimidation against voters or election officials, as well as any display of arms or force, have been prohibited.

Violators will face punishment under the Representation of the People Order, including rigorous imprisonment ranging from two to seven years, along with fines, the notice warned.