Dhaka, Dec. 17 -- The Election Commission (EC) has asked television channels to refrain from airing insults, derogatory remarks or personal attacks in talk shows and election-related discussions ahead of the 13th national election and referendum due in February next year.

In a letter sent on Wednesday to the secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the EC also called on broadcasters to ensure equal opportunities for all political parties and candidates in election programmes.

In a statement issued by its public relations wing, the EC said creating an environment for a free, fair and credible election was "extremely important".

It said both state-run and private television channels could play a key role by providing ba...