2 candidates boycott polls in Lakshmipur

A pro-BNP candidate and a rebel contesting without Awami League approval have boycotted elections in Ramganj and Lakshmipur Sadar Upazilas, alleging irregularities.

Both announced their decisions soon after the polling began at 8am on Monday.

The candidates demanded re-polling in the Upazilas.

VP Abdur Rahim, a BNP supporter, pulled out of the election, alleging seizure of polling stations by his rival, pro-Awami League candidate AKM Ruhul Amin, and administrative inaction.

Meanwhile, at a press conference, Awami League rebel aspirant Mohiuddin Bakul alleged his polling agents had been driven out of the polling booths.

He claimed RAB personnel and criminals had laid siege to his house the night before the election, threatening him of dire consequences if he ventured out before the results were out.