Abu Raihan, Manirampur Correspondent
With only eight days remaining before the national parliamentary election, the electoral atmosphere in Jashore-5 (Manirampur) constituency is becoming increasingly tense. As campaigning intensifies, incidents of tearing down candidates’ festoons and banners under the cover of night have been reported. Although no major clashes have occurred so far, several complaints regarding minor untoward incidents have already surfaced.
According to allegations, on the morning of February 2, campaign banners and festoons bearing the “Pitcher” symbol of independent candidate M. Iqbal Hossain were found torn down in front of Gangulia Amtala adjacent to a government primary school polling center in Rohita Union of the upazila. The banners were reportedly hung with ropes, while another banner placed in front of an abandoned shop was also damaged by suspected miscreants.
Local supporters of the Pitcher symbol claimed that the banners had been set up on the evening of February 1. At that time, a verbal altercation reportedly took place between Pitcher symbol supporters and several local supporters of the Sheaf of Paddy symbol, which was later resolved. However, Pitcher symbol supporters suspect that the same individuals may have been involved in the later act of vandalism.
On the same night, supporters further alleged that campaign festoons, banners, and bamboo structures bearing the Pitcher symbol were uprooted in Dhakuria Union, as well as in Jamrultala and Peyaratala areas of Bijoyrampur Ward along the Jashore–Satkhira highway within the municipal area.
Regarding the allegations, Chief Election Agent of the Pitcher symbol, Md. Nistar Faruk, stated that a vested group, driven by jealousy over the anticipated victory of candidate M. Iqbal Hossain, is attempting to create disorder in the constituency and undermine the credibility of the election.
He expressed confidence that voters across Manirampur, not only in Rohita Union, would elect M. Iqbal Hossain as their Member of Parliament through their votes, Insha’Allah. Supporters of the Pitcher symbol have strongly condemned the tearing of campaign cloth banners, describing the incident as shameful and unacceptable, and have voiced their protest on social media.
Meanwhile, a representative associated with the Sheaf of Paddy symbol stated that although they were unaware of the incident, those responsible for such an act did not do the right thing, and they would look into the matter.
When contacted, Manirampur Upazila Returning Officer Md. Samrat Hossain said that no written complaint had yet been received. He emphasized that regular patrols are being conducted across the constituency to prevent disorder. However, since the incidents reportedly occurred at night and the perpetrators could not be identified, immediate action could not be taken.