Bangladesh, Jan. 15 -- A controversy has erupted over the country's newly introduced postal voting system even before voting has begun, after videos circulating online showed large numbers of postal ballots being handled inside a private residence, prompting allegations of manipulation from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

The videos, widely shared on social media over the past few days, appear to show several individuals counting stacks of ballot papers meant for the upcoming national election. Envelopes visible in the footage bear addresses in Bahrain, raising questions about the security and handling of ballots sent to expatriate voters.

BNP leaders said they have already lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission ...