Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defense Party (VDP) has removed 330 members from election duty in Dhaka after an investigation revealed they were allegedly recruited using fake certificates and monetary exchanges.
The disciplinary action is part of the force’s “zero tolerance” policy against corruption and irregularities ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election.
A General Diary (GD) has also been filed against the accused ward team leader, Mamun, who is reportedly absconding.
Confirming the matter, Deputy Director and Public Relations Officer Ashikuzzaman said in a press release on Wednesday, February 11, that ensuring free, fair, and credible elections is a key responsibility of the state. He added that Bangladesh Ansar and VDP has been implementing systematic, technology-driven measures over the past 18 months to prevent corruption and irregularities.
According to the investigation, Mamun, ward team leader of TDP in ward no. 22 under Hatirjheel Police Station, allegedly issued fake certificates at Tk 400 per person to enroll 330 untrained personnel for election duty. He reportedly accepted an additional Tk 1,100 per person as bribes under the pretext of assigning them duties.
Following the discovery, all involved personnel were immediately removed from election duties, and legal action against Mamun is underway, Ashikuzzaman said.
KR/MHK