BNP blasts ‘vote symbol will be asked in the grave’ campaign

BNP Standing Committee member and Election Management Committee chief Nazrul Islam Khan on Sunday strongly criticised what he called a “disturbing and sad” election campaign that uses religious fear to influence voters, warning that it hurts public faith and crosses ethical lines.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission building in Agargaon around noon on February 1, Nazrul Islam Khan said voters were being emotionally blackmailed in the name of religion.

“People are being told that they will be asked in the grave whether they voted for a particular symbol. This is extremely unfortunate,” he said, without naming any party.

“Our religious beliefs and emotions are being hurt, yet the Election Commission is not taking action,” he added.

Nazrul Islam Khan said such messaging distorts Islamic teachings for political gain.

“As Muslims, we all know that there are three questions in the grave. What is your religion? Who is your Lord? And who is your Prophet?” he said. “Now they are saying a fourth question will be added — whether you voted for a specific symbol. This is not a joke. This is deeply sad.”

He accused campaigners of exploiting faith to manipulate voters, saying such tactics undermine trust in the electoral process.

“This election is important, no doubt. But the people’s trust and confidence are far more important,” he said.

Nazrul Islam Khan said several concerns, including the use of religious rhetoric in campaigning, were raised during the meeting with the Election Commission.

“The Commission has said they will look into the matter,” he added.

The remarks come amid intensifying political campaigns ahead of the election, with parties trading sharp accusations over ethics, religion, and voter influence.