Dhaka, Feb. 9 -- Independent candidate for the Dhaka-9 constituency Dr Tasnim Jara has alleged that the Election Commission's decision to ban mobile phones is effectively creating opportunities for irregularities in the electoral process.

In a Facebook post on Monday afternoon, she wrote that the sudden decision to ban mobile phones within 400 yards of polling stations is unreasonable, anti-people and contrary to fair elections. She demanded the immediate withdrawal of the decision.

Explaining why the decision is unacceptable, she pointed out several concerns:

Public transport will be closed on election day, forcing voters to travel from far and wide on foot or by rickshaw. If voters arrive with mobile phones by mistake, they will be t...