Editorial
Local poll violence
Sporadic, yet why?
The country is approaching the final phase of local polls. People with hopes and aspirations are casting ballots in various unions of the country to choose their representatives. While we take pride in the election processes at the grassroots, we can't help feel sad about the violence that has marred these elections in certain pockets.
So far 19 people have been killed and scores injured at various places since the second phase of polling started on May 31. On an average, everyday fifty persons are wounded in poll related clashes. Violence mainly takes place after the polls are held or when the vote counting is on.
Usually local government polls are given to a degree of violence because of clash of interests between localized groups. But clearly the level of violence is already a matter of concern and must be addressed with due seriousness.
In most of the places, generally Awami League backed candidates who are defeated in the polls allegedly resort to violence. Curiously, one person has died following a clash between two losing AL backed candidates.
The perturbing part is, the nature and intensity of violence is getting bigger. From stray incidents these are fairly spread out now. The incidents are put down to lack of vigil and control of the local law enforcing agencies.
It is time, the Elections Commission, local administration and law enforcing agencies; devise effective methods to prevent violence occurring by timely intervention. The most important part however would have to be played by the political parties to discourage violence by the candidates they support.
We must try and guard against violence in the forthcoming phase of local polls which ends on July 5.
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