National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chairman Kamal Uddin Ahmed emphasised the importance of protecting voters' rights and upholding electoral integrity ahead of the national polls, reports bdnews24.com.
During a meeting with the Election Commission on Thursday, Mr Kamal addressed the delicate balance between encouraging voting as a civic duty and respecting individual rights.
"Preventing a voter from casting their ballot is a violation of human rights, while forcing them to vote contravenes the election code of conduct," he said.
While voting is compulsory in some nations, the choice to abstain remains a personal right, according to him. Interference with this choice or forced participation would therefore constitute a serious breach of democratic principles.
Responding to questions about the implications of forcing someone to vote, Kamal said any proven coercion would fall foul of the electoral code of conduct.
The NHRC chief also called on law enforcement agencies to employ an 'intelligence-based strategy' to maintain peace during the campaigns for the election in light of several incidents of violence.
Mr Kamal pointed out that the tension and conflicts often sparked by candidates, their supporters, and political activists can significantly undermine public trust in the electoral process.
Uphold electoral integrity before polls: NHRC chief
FE Team | Published: December 28, 2023 22:37:21
Uphold electoral integrity before polls: NHRC chief
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