Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) has described the imposition of strict restrictions on journalists carrying mobile phones at polling centres while collecting information during the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the referendum as a naked, unjustified and unacceptable interference in independent journalism. According to the restrictions issued by the Election Commission, carrying mobile phones within a radius of 400 yards of polling stations has been prohibited for everyone except a few designated officials. The DRU clearly states that modern journalism is unimaginable without mobile phones. Preventing journalists from carrying mobile phones means controlling the flow of election-related information and rendering the electoral process opaque to the public. The DRU strongly and firmly demands that the Election Commission immediately ensure the right of journalists on duty to carry mobile phones at polling centres.

Source: Dhaka Tribune February 09, 2026 11:51 UTC