Independent candidate’s Campaign disrupted again in Pabna-3 as Microphone Vandalized

Campaign activities of independent parliamentary candidate KM Anwarul Islam in Pabna-3 have been disrupted repeatedly over the past five days, with allegations of vandalism, intimidation and physical harassment in Chatmohar upazila.

The incidents have heightened political tension in the constituency ahead of the national elections and raised concerns among voters about a fair campaign environment.

KM Anwarul Islam, who is contesting the seat with the horse symbol, expressed frustration over what he described as inaction by law enforcement and election officials. He shared his concerns at a press conference at his residence in Pabna municipality at 11am on Tuesday.

According to complaints filed by the candidate, the first incident occurred on January 22, when his campaign microphone was vandalized at Rail Bazaar in Mulgram Union of Chatmohar. Two days later, on January 24, his campaign was again disrupted at Failjana Bazaar, where his son, KM Monowarul Islam Shafi, was allegedly stopped and verbally abused by a group led by an expelled local Jubo Dal leader.

A third incident took place on January 26, when miscreants vandalized the campaign microphone in the Dolong area of Chatmohar municipality.

Anwarul Islam said he has submitted written complaints to the returning officer, assistant returning officer and local police following each incident. However, he alleged that no visible action has been taken so far.

“While other constituencies in Pabna district remain largely peaceful, my workers and supporters are facing repeated obstruction in Pabna-3,” he said. He also alleged that a rival party candidate was behind the incidents, claiming outsiders were brought in to disrupt his campaign.

Chatmohar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Golam Sarwar Hossain said the incidents fall under election-related offenses. “We have received a general diary from the independent candidate. We will investigate and take action following the law,” he said, adding that executive magistrates are also responsible for enforcing the election code of conduct.

Israt Jahan Barsha, assistant magistrate of the Electoral Inquiry Committee in Chatmohar, confirmed receiving complaints. She said an executive magistrate visited the area after Monday’s incident, but investigators have yet to identify those responsible.

“These acts of vandalism are criminal offenses,” she said. “Police action will follow once the investigation is completed.”