Staff Reporter :
The Election Commission has held no discussions with the Ministry of Home Affairs on providing firearms to candidates ahead of the upcoming national election, EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said yesterday, seeking to clarify speculation sparked by recent remarks from the home affairs adviser.
Speaking to reporters at the Nirbachan Bhaban on December 17, Akhtar said the commission had not taken up the issue formally and would make any decision only after assessing the overall law-and-order situation and the election environment.
“So far, there has been no discussion with the home ministry on this matter,” he said. “The commission will take decisions considering the security situation and the broader electoral context.” Akhtar noted that possession of firearms by candidates is not, in itself, a violation of the election code of conduct. However, he said the commission retains the authority to amend, revise or add to the code if circumstances warrant such changes.
Commenting on statements made earlier by the home affairs adviser, the EC secretary said those remarks may have been made from the standpoint of ensuring the safety of candidates. “There was no prior discussion with us on this issue,” he said, adding that the adviser would be in a better position to explain the intent and context of his comments.
When asked whether allowing firearms could contradict the election code of conduct, Akhtar said no immediate conflict was apparent, but stressed that the commission could take a firm position at any time if the situation demanded it.
Addressing concerns that heightened security measures might create fear among voters or candidates, he dismissed the notion. “Ensuring security is in everyone’s interest,” he said. “Why should ensuring security create fear?”
On the broader issue of arms control ahead of the polls, Akhtar said the process was routine and ongoing. As in past elections, he said, legally held firearms are typically deposited and illegal weapons recovered during a specified period before polling day.
“When the matter becomes relevant, the commission will take appropriate measures in accordance with the law,” he said.
