Election Commission allows mobile phones at polling centres after backlash

Voters, candidates, agents, journalists and observers may carry phones but cannot photograph secret booths

The Election Commission has withdrawn its ban on mobile phones at polling centres following criticism and objections.

Just a day after issuing the restriction, EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said on Monday night that voters, candidates, election agents, journalists and observers will be allowed to carry phones inside polling centres.

However, taking photographs inside secret voting booths will remain prohibited, he said.

“We are revising the notification to make the matter clear,” Akhtar told bdnews24.com.

The earlier directive had barred phones within 400 yards of polling centres, sparking widespread debate.