, Feb. 15 -- Seventeen of the 25 candidates who contested the national election from parliamentary constituencies in Kushtia have got their election deposits forfeited, according to official figures.

Under rules set by the Election Commission, a candidate loses their deposit if they fail to secure at least one-eighth - or 12.5% - of the total votes cast in their constituency.

A total of 25 candidates, including one independent and nominees from 14 political parties, took part in the election across Kushtia's four seats. The only female contender stood under the banner of the Bangladesh Republican Party.

The results highlight the strong showing of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami in the district, with the party winning three of the four const...