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establishing medical colleges in every district, and promoting moral education.

On women, the Jamaat candidate said his party will ensure their education, employment, and security, with a zero-tolerance policy against violence and harassment.

At the local level, Milon said his priorities include stopping extortion and drug abuse, resolving gas shortages, addressing waterlogging and ensuring public safety.

Meanwhile, talking to this newspaper, BNP-backed candidate Saiful Huq accused Nirob and his supporters of obstructing his campaign.

Expressing confidence, Huq said he is receiving a strong response from voters.

Like his rivals, Huq pledged to tackle extortion, drug abuse and illegal occupation, and promised to make the constituency business-friendly and livable by resolving water, gas, electricity and sewerage issues.

Bangladesh Garment Sramik Samhati President Taslima Akhter, vying for the constituency under the banner of Ganosamhati Andolan, called for a peaceful democratic transition.

She emphasised women’s empowerment and a labour-friendly environment, pledging to continue her struggle on both fronts.

Nargis, a middle-aged woman who has been selling rice cakes (pithas) in Tejgaon for nearly a decade, said she is eager to vote after many years.

“My vote is my right, and I will vote for the most suitable candidate,” she said while talking to The Daily Star.

She hoped for a positive change through the February 12 election, and demanded an end to extortion from whoever wins this seat.

Mojibur Rahman, a 43-year-old private-sector employee, said he is satisfied with the election environment and hopes for a fair vote.

Citing load-shedding, drugs and teen gangs as key problems, he said the next government must ensure security, improve law and order and control the prices of essentials.

Businessman Rezaul of Poschim Rajabazar and Giasuddin Torofdar, secretary of the Manipuri Para Welfare Association, identified mosquito, rickety footpaths, and sewerage problems as the main issues of the constituency.

Both hope these problems will be resolved by the next elected government.

This newspaper also spoke with some Hindu voters in Shahinbag Hindupara, who said the election lacks the festive atmosphere seen around previous times.

“The country’s current situation is complicated, and the coming days may get worse. But we want peace and to build the nation together,” said one voter, requesting anonymity.