Female voters in one union of Chandpur have reportedly not participated in elections for over five decades, following instructions from a local spiritual leader, known as a pir. In Rupasa South Union No. 16 of Faridganj Upazila, efforts by election authorities and local administration to bring women to polling centers have repeatedly been unsuccessful.
According to local voter data, the union has 21,695 registered voters, including 10,299 women. The pattern of non-participation among women includes Muslims as well as women from Hindu and Christian communities in the area. Local accounts trace the practice back to 1969, when a pir named Hasne Maudud reportedly instructed women to observe purdah and avoid going to polling centers.
Despite abstaining from voting, women in the union reportedly access government services and participate in public life, including markets and education. Authorities say that ahead of the upcoming election, meetings and awareness activities have been held with mosque imams, teachers, and community members to encourage women’s participation.
Local residents say there are expectations that some women may vote this time, potentially breaking the long-standing practice. Election preparations in the area continue, with officials monitoring turnout.
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