The Election Commission (EC) has instructed law enforcement agencies to remain on high alert to prevent covert attacks ahead of the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum, saying it is satisfied with the measures taken so far by the government and security forces.

The directive came at an emergency meeting on law and order held at the Election Building on Sunday, chaired by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin. 

The meeting was attended by the four Election Commissioners, senior officials from law enforcement agencies, and representatives of the Ministry of Home Affairs and other government bodies.

Briefing reporters after the meeting, Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah said the EC was not dismissing the possibility of covert attacks and had discussed steps to ensure such incidents do not recur or are dealt with firmly.

“The EC’s message is very clear—there is no apprehension about the election. The election will be held on time, and any attempt to obstruct or sabotage the process will be dealt with decisively,” he said.

Sanaullah noted that the meeting reviewed developments since the announcement of the election schedule and assessed future actions and strategic preparedness. Views from various agencies were heard to ensure coordinated responses.

The discussion also focused on recent incidents that have raised concern, including the shooting of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a potential candidate and convener of the Inqilab Manch, in Dhaka a day after the schedule for the parliamentary election and referendum was announced last Thursday.

“We have had detailed discussions about the attack on Sharif Osman Bin Hadi and the issue of covert assaults,” Sanaullah said, adding that details could not be disclosed in the interest of the investigation. “Those involved are being identified.”

He also said the meeting addressed the issue of suspects arrested during special operations later securing bail and returning to society, and what further steps might be required in such cases.

According to the commissioner, the EC reviewed whether recent incidents were isolated or part of a larger plan, and whether there had been any operational lapses. He cited attempts to set fire to election offices at the upazila level as indications that the risk of covert attacks could not be ruled out.

“The main objective of today’s meeting was to ensure that such incidents are not repeated and that they are suppressed with a firm hand,” he said.

Sanaullah said all security agencies conveyed a unified message that any attempt to disrupt or undermine the election would fail, and that the necessary level of firmness would be applied wherever required.

Reiterating the EC’s position, he said, “We have no concerns regarding the election. The Commission and the government are fully aware of attempts to create obstacles, and we are satisfied with the actions taken so far by the government and law enforcement agencies. At the same time, we have discussed areas where further efforts may be needed.”

The EC expressed confidence that coordinated measures would ensure a secure environment for the upcoming election and referendum.