Reinstating 4 constituencies in Manikganj, Munshiganj urged

Representatives have urged the reinstatement of four constituencies in Manikganj and Munshiganj. 

As part of preparations for the 13th national parliamentary election, the Election Commission (EC) on Tuesday morning began hearings on objections regarding the re-demarcation of parliamentary constituencies for the Dhaka region, marking the third day of such hearings.

Manikganj representative Barrister Khairul Alam Chowdhury said, "There were four constituencies in Manikganj district till 2001. In 2008, one constituency was slashed, reducing the representation of Manikganj people in the parliament."

He presented the logic of reinstating four constituencies in Manikganj. 

From Munshiganj, Nagorik Odhikar Andolon's Chief Coordinator Rony Mallik said, "There are three constituencies in Munshiganj now. We expressed demand for reinstating four constituencies as in 2001. We have also talked about issues regarding expats' voting rights."

The hearing started at 10:00am on Manikganj 1, 2 and 3 followed by Narsingdi 4 and 5, and Narayanganj 3, 4 and 5, which is expected to continue till 12:30pm in the auditorium of the EC Building in the capital's Agargaon. 

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin is chairing the hearing, which will continue until 5:00 pm today. Election Commissioners and the Secretary of the EC Secretariat are also taking part in the hearing.

Besides, hearings will be held for Dhaka 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 14, 15, 16, 18 and 19 constituencies from 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm.

Lawyers are representing the applicants in the hearings regarding claims and objections to the re-demarcation of parliamentary constituencies. In addition, applicants themselves are also participating in the hearings. The EC is listening to both sides and assuring a neutral resolution in accordance with the law and regulations.