Women make up more than half of the electorate across the seven parliamentary constituencies in Bogura district, positioning them as a decisive force in the upcoming national election. According to district election data, Bogura has 2,981,672 registered voters—1,500,788 women, 1,480,842 men, and 42 transgender voters—meaning women outnumber men by nearly 20,000.
Among the seven constituencies, Bogura-5 has the highest number of voters, while Bogura-3 has the lowest. Female voters exceed male voters in most constituencies, including Bogura-1, 3, 4, 5, and 6. In Bogura-2 and Bogura-7, male voters are slightly more numerous. Voting will take place on February 12 in 983 polling centers and 5,577 polling booths across the district.
Dilruba Nuri, a lawyer and district member secretary of the Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal (BASD), is the only woman candidate among the seven constituencies. She is contesting in Bogura-6 (Sadar). She said that although women are numerically dominant, many are not fully aware of the voting process or their rights, and social barriers still discourage women from public political participation.
Local women expressed mixed views about voting. Some said they intend to vote as before, while others indicated hesitation depending on whether they feel safe or free from pressure. Observers including educators and civil society representatives said women’s turnout will depend on security, fairness, and whether they can vote independently.
Election officials said preparations are underway, including polling center renovations and CCTV installation. Civil society groups noted that women voters’ participation could influence outcomes in multiple constituencies, especially where margins are narrow
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