Dhaka: Inspector General of Police (IGP) AKM Shahidul Hoque on Sunday warned that action will be taken if any candidate tries to create any chaos during the union parishad elections.

‘If any candidate tries to create chaos during the elections his or her centre might be suspended, and might face criminal case, resulting in cancellation of his candidature,’ he warned while briefing reporters at the Police Headquarters.

He said around 1.80 lakh members of law enforcement agencies, including the police, Rab, BGB, Ansar and VDP, will be on duty during the polls in each phase. The elections will be held in three phases.

The IGP said a festive mood has been prevailing across the country over the UP elections as candidates are contesting the polls with political symbols for the first time. At the same time, tension has been prevailing among opponent candidates as well as their followers, he added.

He said around 208 incidents of violence occurred across the country centering the upcoming elections. At least seven people were killed and 580 others injured during the violence.  

Besides, 143 cases were filed and 55 GDs were registered with local police stations across the country centering the polls violence, the IGP said.

He said they have taken all-out preparations for peaceful holding of the elections but it is not possible without the cooperation from all, including the candidates.

Replying to a question, the IGP said members of law enforcement agencies will be on election duty to maintain the law and order situation, not to ensure the victory of any party candidate.

Members of law enforcement agencies will ensure a good atmosphere so that voters can go to polling centres to cast their votes freely.

Senior officials of Police Headquarters were present during the briefing.