Sheikh Hasina was sworn in as Bangladesh's prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-calls-for-probe-into-bangladesh-elections-188315">deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging</a>.

Hasina, 71, has presided over record economic growth in the South Asian country of 165 million people but critics have accused her of creeping authoritarianism.

Her ruling Awami League party and its allies won the December 30 elections by a landslide, securing 288 seats in the 300-seat parliament compared to just seven for the main opposition.

The campaign saw mass arrests of opposition activists and candidates and allegations of widespread rigging including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation.

Seventeen people were killed on election day.

The European Union has called for a probe into allegations of irregularities, saying "significant obstacles to a level playing field... tainted the electoral campaign and the vote."

The United States expressed concern about "credible reports of harassment, intimidation and violence".

The United Nations on Friday said there were indications that "reprisals" have targeted the opposition since the election, including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases.

The opposition, which last week <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-opposition-boycotts-swearing-in-amid-calls-to-probe-vote-rigging-188025">boycotted the oath-taking ceremony</a> of the newly elected MPs, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government -- something Hasina and the election commission have rejected outright.

'Mother of humanity'

President Abdul Hamid administered Hassina'a oath in a ceremony at the presidential palace, Bangabhaban. A 47-member cabinet with many new faces was also sworn in.

To her supporters, Hasina is known as Bangladesh's "mother of humanity" for allowing in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017.

Opponents accuse her of jailing arch-foe Khaleda Zia on politically motivated charges, of orchestrating mass arrests, enforced disappearances and passing Draconian anti-press freedom laws to try to cling to power.

Hasina was abroad in August 1975 when a group of renegade military officers assassinated her father, Bangladesh's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons.

She started her political career as a hero of the people, returning from exile in 1981 to take over as Awami League leader and beginning a long struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh.

Hasina joined forces with Zia's BNP to help oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990 but the pair soon fell out and were branded the "Battling Begums".

Their rivalry has dominated Bangladeshi politics for the last 30 years.

Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 but she struggled to emerge from the shadow of her father during her first term and lost the 2001 contest.

She returned to power after winning the December 2008 polls by landslide, just months after she was imprisoned by a military-backed government on corruption charges.

She has been in power ever since, presiding over economic expansion of more than six per cent every year since 2009. GDP growth last year was 7.86 per cent and Hasina has promised to take that into double digits.

Sheikh Hasina was sworn in as Bangladesh's prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging.

Sheikh Hasina was sworn in as Bangladesh's prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging. Hasina, 71, has presided over record economic growth in the South Asian country of 165 million people but critics have accused her of creeping authoritarianism. Her ruling Awami League party and its allies won the December 30 elections by a landslide, securing 288 seats in the 300-seat parliament compared to just seven for the main opposition. The campaign saw mass arrests of opposition activists and candidates and allegations of widespread rigging including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation. Seventeen people were killed on election day. The European Union has called for a probe into allegations of irregularities, saying "significant obstacles to a level playing field... tainted the electoral campaign and the vote." The United States expressed concern about "credible reports of harassment, intimidation and violence". The United Nations on Friday said there were indications that "reprisals" have targeted the opposition since the election, including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases. The opposition, which last week boycotted the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected MPs, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government -- something Hasina and the election commission have rejected outright. 'Mother of humanity' President Abdul Hamid administered Hassina'a oath in a ceremony at the presidential palace, Bangabhaban. A 47-member cabinet with many new faces was also sworn in. To her supporters, Hasina is known as Bangladesh's "mother of humanity" for allowing in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017. Opponents accuse her of jailing arch-foe Khaleda Zia on politically motivated charges, of orchestrating mass arrests, enforced disappearances and passing Draconian anti-press freedom laws to try to cling to power. Hasina was abroad in August 1975 when a group of renegade military officers assassinated her father, Bangladesh's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons. She started her political career as a hero of the people, returning from exile in 1981 to take over as Awami League leader and beginning a long struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh. Hasina joined forces with Zia's BNP to help oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990 but the pair soon fell out and were branded the "Battling Begums". Their rivalry has dominated Bangladeshi politics for the last 30 years. Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 but she struggled to emerge from the shadow of her father during her first term and lost the 2001 contest. She returned to power after winning the December 2008 polls by landslide, just months after she was imprisoned by a military-backed government on corruption charges. She has been in power ever since, presiding over economic expansion of more than six per cent every year since 2009. GDP growth last year was 7.86 per cent and Hasina has promised to take that into double digits.

Sheikh Hasina sworn in as Bangladesh PM after 'tainted' polls

Sheikh Hasina will be sworn in as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/hasina-heading-for-landslide-win-after-deadly-bangladesh-election-day-187386">Bangladeshi prime minister</a> for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/western-powers-call-for-probe-into-bangladesh-election-irregularities-violence-187810">election victory marred by deadly violence</a> and claims of widespread rigging.

Hasina, 71, has presided over record economic growth in the South Asian country of 165 million people but critics have accused her of creeping authoritarianism.

Her ruling Awami League party and its allies won the December 30 elections by a landslide, securing 288 seats in the 300-seat parliament compared to just seven for the main opposition.

The campaign saw mass arrests of opposition activists and candidates and allegations of widespread rigging including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation.

Seventeen people were killed on election day.

The European Union has called for a probe into allegations of irregularities, saying "significant obstacles to a level playing field... tainted the electoral campaign and the vote."

The United States expressed concern about "credible reports of harassment, intimidation and violence".

The United Nations on Friday said there were indications that "reprisals" have targeted the opposition since the election, including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases.

The opposition, which last week boycotted the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected MPs, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government -- something Hasina and the election commission have rejected outright.

'Mother of humanity'

To her supporters, Hasina is known as Bangladesh's "mother of humanity" for allowing in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017.

Opponents accuse her of jailing arch-foe Khaleda Zia on politically motivated charges, of orchestrating mass arrests, enforced disappearances and passing Draconian anti-press freedom laws to try to cling to power.

Hasina was abroad in August 1975 when a group of renegade military officers assassinated her father, Bangladesh's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons.

She started her political career as a hero of the people, returning from exile in 1981 to take over as Awami League leader and beginning a long struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh.

Hasina joined forces with Zia's BNP to help oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990 but the pair soon fell out and were branded the "Battling Begums".

Their rivalry has dominated Bangladeshi politics for the last 30 years.

Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 but she struggled to emerge from the shadow of her father during her first term and lost the 2001 contest.

She returned to power after winning the December 2008 polls by a landslide, just months after she was imprisoned by a military-backed government on corruption charges.

She has been in power ever since, presiding over the economic expansion of more than six per cent every year since 2009. GDP growth last year was 7.86 per cent and Hasina has promised to take that into double digits.

She was due to be sworn in at 3:30 pm (0930 GMT) along with a 47-member cabinet that includes many new faces.

Sheikh Hasina will be sworn in as Bangladeshi prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging.

Sheikh Hasina will be sworn in as Bangladeshi prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging. Hasina, 71, has presided over record economic growth in the South Asian country of 165 million people but critics have accused her of creeping authoritarianism. Her ruling Awami League party and its allies won the December 30 elections by a landslide, securing 288 seats in the 300-seat parliament compared to just seven for the main opposition. The campaign saw mass arrests of opposition activists and candidates and allegations of widespread rigging including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation. Seventeen people were killed on election day. The European Union has called for a probe into allegations of irregularities, saying "significant obstacles to a level playing field... tainted the electoral campaign and the vote." The United States expressed concern about "credible reports of harassment, intimidation and violence". The United Nations on Friday said there were indications that "reprisals" have targeted the opposition since the election, including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases. The opposition, which last week boycotted the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected MPs, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government -- something Hasina and the election commission have rejected outright. 'Mother of humanity' To her supporters, Hasina is known as Bangladesh's "mother of humanity" for allowing in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017. Opponents accuse her of jailing arch-foe Khaleda Zia on politically motivated charges, of orchestrating mass arrests, enforced disappearances and passing Draconian anti-press freedom laws to try to cling to power. Hasina was abroad in August 1975 when a group of renegade military officers assassinated her father, Bangladesh's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons. She started her political career as a hero of the people, returning from exile in 1981 to take over as Awami League leader and beginning a long struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh. Hasina joined forces with Zia's BNP to help oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990 but the pair soon fell out and were branded the "Battling Begums". Their rivalry has dominated Bangladeshi politics for the last 30 years. Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 but she struggled to emerge from the shadow of her father during her first term and lost the 2001 contest. She returned to power after winning the December 2008 polls by a landslide, just months after she was imprisoned by a military-backed government on corruption charges. She has been in power ever since, presiding over the economic expansion of more than six per cent every year since 2009. GDP growth last year was 7.86 per cent and Hasina has promised to take that into double digits. She was due to be sworn in at 3:30 pm (0930 GMT) along with a 47-member cabinet that includes many new faces.

Sheikh Hasina to be sworn in as Bangladesh PM after polls

Amid reports of violence and alleged human rights violations in Bangladesh during the December 30 general elections, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has called for those responsible for the violence to be held to account.

The OHCHR has also stated that the arrest of journalists under the Digital Security Act suppresses free speech and expression.&nbsp;

"There are credible reports of fatalities and numerous injuries on polling day alone," OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said in Geneva on Friday.

The OHCHR's remark comes nearly a week after Bangladesh's ruling Awami League secured a landslide victory in the general elections, an outcome rejected by opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) which demanded fresh polls.

The election was marred by violence, in which 17 people were killed.

"There are worrying indications that reprisals have continued to take place, notably against the political opposition, including physical attacks and ill-treatment, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases,"&nbsp;Shamdasani said, noting reports of disproportionate "violent attacks and intimidation" by ruling party activists and in some cases with the involvement of law enforcement officials.&nbsp;

Shamdasani cited reports of media intimidation and property damage, as well as other constraints that have hindered free and public reporting on the elections.&nbsp;

She asserted that at least two journalists covering the election have been arrested under the 2018 Digital Security Act, which, according to news reports, suppresses free speech and press freedom.

Moreover, since December 10, at least 54 news and other websites have been blocked, and temporary internet restrictions around election day have constrained freedom of expression.

Pointing to reports of police breaking up peaceful protests demanding re-election, and arrests under laws such as the Digital Security Act, she said that the space for human rights defenders and organisations, political opposition and the general public, to speak out about the election had become "restricted".&nbsp;

"Restrictive legislation, including this Act, should be reformed so that human rights defenders, civil society, journalists and all members of the public are protected in their exercise of the freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association and engage freely in debating the election and Bangladesh's democratic and development processes," the OHCHR spokesperson said.

The UN agency urged the authorities to carry out "prompt, independent, impartial and effective investigations" into all alleged violence and human rights violations surrounding the elections, and to hold those responsible accountable, "regardless of their political affiliations".

OHCHR also encouraged the National Human Rights Commission to play an independent and proactive role.&nbsp;

"We call on the authorities to take urgent measures to prevent further reprisals, and to ensure that law enforcement authorities exercise their powers strictly in accordance with the rule of law and principles of legality and proportionality," Shamdasani said.

Amid reports of violence and alleged human rights violations in Bangladesh during the December 30 general elections, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has called for those responsible for the violence to be held to account.

Amid reports of violence and alleged human rights violations in Bangladesh during the December 30 general elections, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has called for those responsible for the violence to be held to account. The OHCHR has also stated that the arrest of journalists under the Digital Security Act suppresses free speech and expression. "There are credible reports of fatalities and numerous injuries on polling day alone," OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said in Geneva on Friday. The OHCHR's remark comes nearly a week after Bangladesh's ruling Awami League secured a landslide victory in the general elections, an outcome rejected by opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) which demanded fresh polls. The election was marred by violence, in which 17 people were killed. "There are worrying indications that reprisals have continued to take place, notably against the political opposition, including physical attacks and ill-treatment, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases," Shamdasani said, noting reports of disproportionate "violent attacks and intimidation" by ruling party activists and in some cases with the involvement of law enforcement officials. Shamdasani cited reports of media intimidation and property damage, as well as other constraints that have hindered free and public reporting on the elections. She asserted that at least two journalists covering the election have been arrested under the 2018 Digital Security Act, which, according to news reports, suppresses free speech and press freedom. Moreover, since December 10, at least 54 news and other websites have been blocked, and temporary internet restrictions around election day have constrained freedom of expression. Pointing to reports of police breaking up peaceful protests demanding re-election, and arrests under laws such as the Digital Security Act, she said that the space for human rights defenders and organisations, political opposition and the general public, to speak out about the election had become "restricted". "Restrictive legislation, including this Act, should be reformed so that human rights defenders, civil society, journalists and all members of the public are protected in their exercise of the freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association and engage freely in debating the election and Bangladesh's democratic and development processes," the OHCHR spokesperson said. The UN agency urged the authorities to carry out "prompt, independent, impartial and effective investigations" into all alleged violence and human rights violations surrounding the elections, and to hold those responsible accountable, "regardless of their political affiliations". OHCHR also encouraged the National Human Rights Commission to play an independent and proactive role. "We call on the authorities to take urgent measures to prevent further reprisals, and to ensure that law enforcement authorities exercise their powers strictly in accordance with the rule of law and principles of legality and proportionality," Shamdasani said.

Hold those responsible accountable for 'violent attacks and intimidation' in Bangladesh election: UN

Bangladesh’s Prime Minister-designate Sheikh Hasina to take oath on January 7, 2019.

Hasina will be sworn in as the Prime Minister for the fourth time at Bangabhaban – the official residence and office of the Bangladesh President. Besides Hasina, other cabinet ministers will also take the oath.

“The swearing ceremony of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and cabinet members will be held at Bangabhaban at 3.30pm on Monday i.e. January 7, 2019,” informed President Abdul Hamid’s press secretary Joynal Abedin.

The announcement came in the wake of President Hamid extending an invite to Hasina to form the government after Awami League appeared as the single largest party securing 288 of the total 298 seats. Elections were held to 298 of the total 300 seats in Bangladesh on December 30, after polls were cancelled in one seat (Brahmanberia -2) and were deferred in one seat (Gaibandha) due to the demise of the BNP candidate.

Earlier in the day, elected Awami League members and party President Sheikh Hasina was sworn in as the members of Parliament. The swearing in ceremony was held at the Oath room of the Parliament.

As many as 257 Awami League members took oath alongside 22 Awami League alliance partner Jatiya Party members. Prime Minister-designate Sheikh Hasina also took oath as the member of Parliament today.

The Parliament speaker Shirin Chaudhury administered the oath ceremony.

However, opposition members stayed away from the oath ceremony. The opposition alliance – Jaitya Oikya Front managed to secure seven seats – five were bagged by BNP and two by Gono Forum.

On the same day, a seven-member delegation of the Jatiya Oikya Front led by BNP secretary general Fakhrul Islam submitted a memorandum to the Chief Election Commissioner Nurul Huda demanding fresh elections under a caretaker and a non-partisan government.

Similar demands were raised by the opposition alliance demanding fresh elections. However, the election commission of Bangladesh had turned it down.

The 11th general elections to Bangladesh were held on December 30, 2018.&nbsp;

The elections were marred by violent clashes between the ruling Awami League and the opposition party – BNP members. As many as 18 people lost their lives in the violent clashes.

Two civilians who had gone to cast their vote were caught amidst a crossfire and succumbed to bullet injuries later. Security personnel belonging to the Ansar force was also killed while bringing a situation under control on the day of the polling.

Bangladesh’s Prime Minister-designate Sheikh Hasina to take oath on January 7, 2019. Hasina will be sworn in as the Prime Minister for the fourth time at Bangabhaban – the official residence and office of the Bangladesh President.

Bangladesh’s Prime Minister-designate Sheikh Hasina to take oath on January 7, 2019. Hasina will be sworn in as the Prime Minister for the fourth time at Bangabhaban – the official residence and office of the Bangladesh President. Besides Hasina, other cabinet ministers will also take the oath. “The swearing ceremony of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and cabinet members will be held at Bangabhaban at 3.30pm on Monday i.e. January 7, 2019,” informed President Abdul Hamid’s press secretary Joynal Abedin. The announcement came in the wake of President Hamid extending an invite to Hasina to form the government after Awami League appeared as the single largest party securing 288 of the total 298 seats. Elections were held to 298 of the total 300 seats in Bangladesh on December 30, after polls were cancelled in one seat (Brahmanberia -2) and were deferred in one seat (Gaibandha) due to the demise of the BNP candidate. Earlier in the day, elected Awami League members and party President Sheikh Hasina was sworn in as the members of Parliament. The swearing in ceremony was held at the Oath room of the Parliament. As many as 257 Awami League members took oath alongside 22 Awami League alliance partner Jatiya Party members. Prime Minister-designate Sheikh Hasina also took oath as the member of Parliament today. The Parliament speaker Shirin Chaudhury administered the oath ceremony. However, opposition members stayed away from the oath ceremony. The opposition alliance – Jaitya Oikya Front managed to secure seven seats – five were bagged by BNP and two by Gono Forum. On the same day, a seven-member delegation of the Jatiya Oikya Front led by BNP secretary general Fakhrul Islam submitted a memorandum to the Chief Election Commissioner Nurul Huda demanding fresh elections under a caretaker and a non-partisan government. Similar demands were raised by the opposition alliance demanding fresh elections. However, the election commission of Bangladesh had turned it down. The 11th general elections to Bangladesh were held on December 30, 2018. The elections were marred by violent clashes between the ruling Awami League and the opposition party – BNP members. As many as 18 people lost their lives in the violent clashes. Two civilians who had gone to cast their vote were caught amidst a crossfire and succumbed to bullet injuries later. Security personnel belonging to the Ansar force was also killed while bringing a situation under control on the day of the polling.

Bangladesh’s Prime Minister-designate Sheikh Hasina to take oath on January 7

Opposition members of Bangladesh's parliament boycotted a swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, after rejecting results of a general election that they said was rigged to give Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina her third straight term.

Hasina's ruling alliance won more than 90 per cent of the seats contested in Sunday's election, which was marred by accusations of ballot stuffing, voter intimidation and violence that killed at least 17 people.

Hasina and her ruling Awami League party have dismissed the accusations.

While all 291 newly elected members of parliament, including Hasina, from the ruling bloc were sworn in, the seven opposition members stayed away.

They must take their oath within three months or forfeit their seats.

Leaders of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) could not immediately be reached for comment.

The BNP sent a letter to the government on Wednesday seeking permission to meet their leader, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who has been in jail since February on what they call trumped-up charges.

On Thursday, New York-based Human Rights Watch said the run-up to the vote was characterised by "violence and intimidation against the opposition ... and the misuse of laws to limit free speech".

It called for an independent and impartial investigation of the accusations of electoral abuses.

"Reports of ballot stuffing, intimidation of voters, and ruling party control of voting locations on election day mean that an independent and impartial commission should be formed to determine the extent of the violations," Brad Adams, Asia director at the rights group, said in a statement.

The western government, including the United State and the European Union, have condemned the election-day violence and called for an investigation of a range of irregularities.

Hasina said after the results came out that the vote was largely peaceful and voters had taken part enthusiastically.

The BNP has said its workers were being attacked across the country by Awami League activists. The ruling party has denied the charges.

Hasina, whose father, state founder Mujibur Rahman, was assassinated in a coup in 1975, has alternated in and out of power for nearly three decades with her main rival, BNP leader Khaleda.

Khaleda was First Lady when her husband, Ziaur Rahman, was president from 1977 until he was assassinated in 1981.

Hasina's ruling alliance won more than 90 per cent of the seats contested in Sunday's election, which was marred by accusations of ballot stuffing, voter intimidation and violence that killed at least 17 people.

Opposition members of Bangladesh's parliament boycotted a swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, after rejecting results of a general election that they said was rigged to give Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina her third straight term. Hasina's ruling alliance won more than 90 per cent of the seats contested in Sunday's election, which was marred by accusations of ballot stuffing, voter intimidation and violence that killed at least 17 people. Hasina and her ruling Awami League party have dismissed the accusations. While all 291 newly elected members of parliament, including Hasina, from the ruling bloc were sworn in, the seven opposition members stayed away. They must take their oath within three months or forfeit their seats. Leaders of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) could not immediately be reached for comment. The BNP sent a letter to the government on Wednesday seeking permission to meet their leader, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who has been in jail since February on what they call trumped-up charges. On Thursday, New York-based Human Rights Watch said the run-up to the vote was characterised by "violence and intimidation against the opposition ... and the misuse of laws to limit free speech". It called for an independent and impartial investigation of the accusations of electoral abuses. "Reports of ballot stuffing, intimidation of voters, and ruling party control of voting locations on election day mean that an independent and impartial commission should be formed to determine the extent of the violations," Brad Adams, Asia director at the rights group, said in a statement. The western government, including the United State and the European Union, have condemned the election-day violence and called for an investigation of a range of irregularities. Hasina said after the results came out that the vote was largely peaceful and voters had taken part enthusiastically. The BNP has said its workers were being attacked across the country by Awami League activists. The ruling party has denied the charges. Hasina, whose father, state founder Mujibur Rahman, was assassinated in a coup in 1975, has alternated in and out of power for nearly three decades with her main rival, BNP leader Khaleda. Khaleda was First Lady when her husband, Ziaur Rahman, was president from 1977 until he was assassinated in 1981.

Bangladesh opposition boycotts swearing-in amid calls to probe vote rigging

Western powers on Tuesday condemned election day violence in Bangladesh and described a range of other irregularities that marred a vote in which Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's alliance secured more than 90 per cent of parliamentary seats.

The strongly-worded assessments from the UK, European Union, and the United States could hit the image of Hasina, who won a third straight term to power following Sunday's election.

Hasina's opponents have rejected the election result, citing what they describe as widespread rigging and voter intimidation. She has denied impropriety, calling it a peaceful vote that saw enthusiastic participation from her supporters.

The capital Dhaka was quiet on Tuesday, but the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) said its workers were being attacked in several areas elsewhere in the country by activists of the Awami League - charges the party denied.

"Violence has marred the election day, and significant obstacles to a level playing field remained in place throughout the process and have tainted the electoral campaign and the vote," the EU said in a statement, calling for "a proper examination of allegations of irregularities".

The United States, Bangladesh’s largest foreign investor, expressed concern about "credible reports of harassment, intimidation, and violence in the pre-election period that made it difficult for many opposition candidates and their supporters to meet, hold rallies, and campaign freely."

"We are also concerned that election-day irregularities prevented some people from voting, which undermined faith in the electoral process," it said.

The UK's Minister of State for Asia and the Pacific Mark Field echoed the concerns, saying he was "aware of credible accounts of obstacles, including arrests, that constrained or prevented campaigning by opposition parties. "I urge a full, credible and transparent resolution of all complaints related to the conduct of the elections," he said.

Police say at least 17 people were killed in election day clashes between supporters and opponents of Hasina's Awami League. The two sides, which have competed for power often violently for decades, traded blame for the election day unrest.

Opposition BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam said he was collecting reports of rigging to submit to the Election Commission to demand a fresh vote. The commission already rejected that plea, but Islam said: “What is our alternative?”

Journalist arrested

One journalist was arrested and another was on the run after a local government official filed a case against them for publishing "false information" about election irregularities, under new law journalists say could be used to stifle dissent.

Hedayet Hussain Mollah and Rashidul Islam published reports saying more votes had been cast at one constituency in the southeastern Khulna region than the total number of registered voters there.

They were accused under the Digital Security Act enacted in September. Mollah was picked up by police on Tuesday afternoon while Islam was on the run, police said.

"This is false information that was made intentionally to make the election result look questionable and controversial," a police report said.

The deadly clashes on a voting day marked the end of a violent campaign. The opposition said its workers faced arbitrary arrests and candidates were attacked by ruling party activists. The ruling party denied being behind any violence.

“People have shared experiences of being physically assaulted and manhandled at polling stations,” said Saad Hammadi, Amnesty International's regional campaigner for South Asia, calling for an impartial probe into incidents of violence.

Hasina, whose father, state founder Mujibur Rahman, was assassinated in a coup in 1975, has alternated in and out of power for nearly three decades with her main rival, BNP leader Zia Khaleda. Khaleda was jailed in February for corruption.

The strongly-worded assessments from the UK, European Union, and the United States could hit the image of Hasina, who won a third straight term to power following Sunday's election.

Western powers on Tuesday condemned election day violence in Bangladesh and described a range of other irregularities that marred a vote in which Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's alliance secured more than 90 per cent of parliamentary seats. The strongly-worded assessments from the UK, European Union, and the United States could hit the image of Hasina, who won a third straight term to power following Sunday's election. Hasina's opponents have rejected the election result, citing what they describe as widespread rigging and voter intimidation. She has denied impropriety, calling it a peaceful vote that saw enthusiastic participation from her supporters. The capital Dhaka was quiet on Tuesday, but the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) said its workers were being attacked in several areas elsewhere in the country by activists of the Awami League - charges the party denied. "Violence has marred the election day, and significant obstacles to a level playing field remained in place throughout the process and have tainted the electoral campaign and the vote," the EU said in a statement, calling for "a proper examination of allegations of irregularities". The United States, Bangladesh’s largest foreign investor, expressed concern about "credible reports of harassment, intimidation, and violence in the pre-election period that made it difficult for many opposition candidates and their supporters to meet, hold rallies, and campaign freely." "We are also concerned that election-day irregularities prevented some people from voting, which undermined faith in the electoral process," it said. The UK's Minister of State for Asia and the Pacific Mark Field echoed the concerns, saying he was "aware of credible accounts of obstacles, including arrests, that constrained or prevented campaigning by opposition parties. "I urge a full, credible and transparent resolution of all complaints related to the conduct of the elections," he said. Police say at least 17 people were killed in election day clashes between supporters and opponents of Hasina's Awami League. The two sides, which have competed for power often violently for decades, traded blame for the election day unrest. Opposition BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam said he was collecting reports of rigging to submit to the Election Commission to demand a fresh vote. The commission already rejected that plea, but Islam said: “What is our alternative?” Journalist arrested One journalist was arrested and another was on the run after a local government official filed a case against them for publishing "false information" about election irregularities, under new law journalists say could be used to stifle dissent. Hedayet Hussain Mollah and Rashidul Islam published reports saying more votes had been cast at one constituency in the southeastern Khulna region than the total number of registered voters there. They were accused under the Digital Security Act enacted in September. Mollah was picked up by police on Tuesday afternoon while Islam was on the run, police said. "This is false information that was made intentionally to make the election result look questionable and controversial," a police report said. The deadly clashes on a voting day marked the end of a violent campaign. The opposition said its workers faced arbitrary arrests and candidates were attacked by ruling party activists. The ruling party denied being behind any violence. “People have shared experiences of being physically assaulted and manhandled at polling stations,” said Saad Hammadi, Amnesty International's regional campaigner for South Asia, calling for an impartial probe into incidents of violence. Hasina, whose father, state founder Mujibur Rahman, was assassinated in a coup in 1975, has alternated in and out of power for nearly three decades with her main rival, BNP leader Zia Khaleda. Khaleda was jailed in February for corruption.

Western powers call for probe into Bangladesh election irregularities, violence

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/jatiya-oikya-front-lost-due-to-criminal-activities-sheikh-hasina-187627">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina</a> has said that she will be the "premier of all" Bangladeshis and her government's first priority would be to continue the economic reforms.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-lawmakers-to-be-sworn-in-on-january-3-187728">Prime Minister Hasina's Awami League</a> and its allies won a landslide victory in the general elections on Sunday, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls.

Hasina said she would discharge her responsibility as the "premier of all" during her upcoming five-year tenure, the Dhaka Tribune reported.

She said the priority of the new government will be to complete the programmes that have already been undertaken.

"We have okayed different projects, we have to work on them. Now, the most important thing is to ensure the safety and security of our people," she said.

Hasina said the first priority would be to continue the economic activities so that people may have a better life.

She said her party does not believe in the politics of revenge.

"Rather, Awami League works for the development of people considering them as human being once it gets elected," she said.

Hasina also brushed aside the Opposition's allegation of vote rigging, saying "if there had been any allegation, the Election Commission would have cancelled voting in the centre immediately".

She said one or two incidents of irregularities out of the total 40,000 voting centres did not make the whole election unfair.

"They [people] wanted continuity of the government, development for which they overwhelmingly voted for us," she said.

At least 18 people, including a member of a security agency, have been killed and more than 200 others injured in poll-related violence, making it one of the deadliest polls in the country.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League and its allies won a landslide victory in the general elections on Sunday, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that she will be the "premier of all" Bangladeshis and her government's first priority would be to continue the economic reforms. Prime Minister Hasina's Awami League and its allies won a landslide victory in the general elections on Sunday, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls. Hasina said she would discharge her responsibility as the "premier of all" during her upcoming five-year tenure, the Dhaka Tribune reported. She said the priority of the new government will be to complete the programmes that have already been undertaken. "We have okayed different projects, we have to work on them. Now, the most important thing is to ensure the safety and security of our people," she said. Hasina said the first priority would be to continue the economic activities so that people may have a better life. She said her party does not believe in the politics of revenge. "Rather, Awami League works for the development of people considering them as human being once it gets elected," she said. Hasina also brushed aside the Opposition's allegation of vote rigging, saying "if there had been any allegation, the Election Commission would have cancelled voting in the centre immediately". She said one or two incidents of irregularities out of the total 40,000 voting centres did not make the whole election unfair. "They [people] wanted continuity of the government, development for which they overwhelmingly voted for us," she said. At least 18 people, including a member of a security agency, have been killed and more than 200 others injured in poll-related violence, making it one of the deadliest polls in the country.

I will be everyone's premier, first priority to continue economic reforms: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina

The UN has called on all sides in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/journalist-arrested-in-bangladesh-for-false-reporting-on-voting-irregularities-187870">Bangladesh</a> to "exercise restraint" and "ensure a peaceful post-electoral environment," where people can maintain their right to assembly and expression.

The UN's remark comes days after Bangladesh's ruling Awami League secured a landslide victory in the general elections, an outcome rejected by opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) which demanded fresh polls.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/western-powers-call-for-probe-into-bangladesh-election-irregularities-violence-187810">The election was marred </a>by violence, in which 17 people were killed.

"The United Nations is aware of violent incidents and reports of irregularities in the Bangladesh general elections. We regret the loss of life and injuries sustained by candidates and voters during the electoral campaign and on election day," the UN Spokesperson's office said in a statement Monday.

The UN said that violence and attacks on people and property are not acceptable.

"We encourage the parties to address electoral complaints in a peaceful manner and through legal means," the UN urged, adding that "violence and attacks on people and property are not acceptable," the statement said.

The world body also welcomed the participation of the opposition in elections for the first time in 10 years.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League and its allies won the general elections on Sunday, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls.&nbsp;

The BNP of the jailed ex-premier Khaleda Zia won five seats in the 300-member Parliament. The party rejected the poll outcome as "farcical" and demanded a fresh election.&nbsp;

The Election Commission, however, ruled out holding fresh polls.&nbsp;

The opposition Jatiya Oikya Front - National Unity Front (NUF) - comprising the BNP and some smaller parties, criticised the Election Commission and accused its chief of being biased.

The election was marred by violence, in which 17 people were killed.

The UN has called on all sides in Bangladesh to "exercise restraint" and "ensure a peaceful post-electoral environment," where people can maintain their right to assembly and expression. The UN's remark comes days after Bangladesh's ruling Awami League secured a landslide victory in the general elections, an outcome rejected by opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) which demanded fresh polls. The election was marred by violence, in which 17 people were killed. "The United Nations is aware of violent incidents and reports of irregularities in the Bangladesh general elections. We regret the loss of life and injuries sustained by candidates and voters during the electoral campaign and on election day," the UN Spokesperson's office said in a statement Monday. The UN said that violence and attacks on people and property are not acceptable. "We encourage the parties to address electoral complaints in a peaceful manner and through legal means," the UN urged, adding that "violence and attacks on people and property are not acceptable," the statement said. The world body also welcomed the participation of the opposition in elections for the first time in 10 years. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League and its allies won the general elections on Sunday, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls. The BNP of the jailed ex-premier Khaleda Zia won five seats in the 300-member Parliament. The party rejected the poll outcome as "farcical" and demanded a fresh election. The Election Commission, however, ruled out holding fresh polls. The opposition Jatiya Oikya Front - National Unity Front (NUF) - comprising the BNP and some smaller parties, criticised the Election Commission and accused its chief of being biased.

UN asks Bangladesh political parties to ensure peaceful post-electoral environment

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj congratulated her Bangladeshi counterpart Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali for his recent win in the 11th Parliamentary elections held on Sunday.

The EAM reiterated that India would continue cooperation with Bangladesh as a close neighbour while extending her wishes to the Bangladeshi Foreign Minister.

"Foreign Minister Mahmood Ali thanked Indian External Affairs Minister for the call. He expressed the hope that both the countries would continue to work together for the benefit of the two peoples," a release issued by Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-ties-will-continue-to-flourish-under-her-leadership-pm-modi-congratulates-sheikh-hasina-on-parliamentary-win-187474">Sunday's elections</a> saw the Awami League-led Grand Alliance securing a landslide victory by winning 288 seats. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) helmed front, on the other hand, suffered a major setback as it only secured seven seats.

The new lawmakers are slated to be sworn in on January 3 in Dhaka. However, Members of Parliament (MPs) from BNP will not be taking an oath tomorrow, as the party has rejected election results and has called for fresh elections.

Sunday's elections saw the Awami League-led Grand Alliance securing a landslide victory by winning 288 seats.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj congratulated her Bangladeshi counterpart Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali for his recent win in the 11th Parliamentary elections held on Sunday. The EAM reiterated that India would continue cooperation with Bangladesh as a close neighbour while extending her wishes to the Bangladeshi Foreign Minister. "Foreign Minister Mahmood Ali thanked Indian External Affairs Minister for the call. He expressed the hope that both the countries would continue to work together for the benefit of the two peoples," a release issued by Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated. Sunday's elections saw the Awami League-led Grand Alliance securing a landslide victory by winning 288 seats. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) helmed front, on the other hand, suffered a major setback as it only secured seven seats. The new lawmakers are slated to be sworn in on January 3 in Dhaka. However, Members of Parliament (MPs) from BNP will not be taking an oath tomorrow, as the party has rejected election results and has called for fresh elections.

Sushma Swaraj congratulates Bangladesh foreign minister on election victory

A journalist working with a prominent media house in<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-will-be-everyones-premier-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasina-187730"> Bangladesh</a> was arrested for allegedly publishing "false" information about voting irregularities in the just-concluded <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/western-powers-call-for-probe-into-bangladesh-election-irregularities-violence-187810">parliamentary elections</a>, according to a media report.

Hedait Hossain Molla, associated with Bangla Tribune and Probaho, reported that in Khulna 1 constituency, 22,419 more ballots were cast than the number of registered voters, the Dhaka Tribune quoted the police as saying.

He was arrested on Tuesday in Khulna under the Digital Security Act following an FIR by Khulna's Assistant Returning Officer Debashish Chowdhury, senior police officer Mahbubur Rahman said.

The FIR also named Rashedul Islam, another journalist associated with local daily Manabzamin. He was yet to be arrested.&nbsp;

"Initial investigations suggest that they were based on false information," Inspector Sarkar Ibrahim Sohel, who is in charge of the investigation, said.

He said that the Election Commission was informed before the case was filed.&nbsp;

The arrest of the journalist comes two days after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League and its allies won the general elections, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls.&nbsp;

The jailed ex-premier Khalida Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which won five seats in the 300-member Parliament, has rejected the poll outcome as "farcical" and demanded a fresh election.

The election was marred by violence, in which 17 people died. The opposition BNP rejected the poll outcome as "farcical" and rigged and demanded a fresh election, amid allegations of intimidation.

The Election Commission (EC) ruled out holding fresh polls.&nbsp;

The opposition Jatiya Oikya Front - National Unity Front (NUF) - comprising the BNP and some smaller parties, criticised the EC and accused its chief of being biased.&nbsp;

Hedait Hossain Molla reported that in Khulna 1 constituency, 22,419 more ballots were cast than the number of registered voters, the Dhaka Tribune quoted the police as saying.

A journalist working with a prominent media house in Bangladesh was arrested for allegedly publishing "false" information about voting irregularities in the just-concluded parliamentary elections, according to a media report. Hedait Hossain Molla, associated with Bangla Tribune and Probaho, reported that in Khulna 1 constituency, 22,419 more ballots were cast than the number of registered voters, the Dhaka Tribune quoted the police as saying. He was arrested on Tuesday in Khulna under the Digital Security Act following an FIR by Khulna's Assistant Returning Officer Debashish Chowdhury, senior police officer Mahbubur Rahman said. The FIR also named Rashedul Islam, another journalist associated with local daily Manabzamin. He was yet to be arrested. "Initial investigations suggest that they were based on false information," Inspector Sarkar Ibrahim Sohel, who is in charge of the investigation, said. He said that the Election Commission was informed before the case was filed. The arrest of the journalist comes two days after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League and its allies won the general elections, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls. The jailed ex-premier Khalida Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which won five seats in the 300-member Parliament, has rejected the poll outcome as "farcical" and demanded a fresh election. The election was marred by violence, in which 17 people died. The opposition BNP rejected the poll outcome as "farcical" and rigged and demanded a fresh election, amid allegations of intimidation. The Election Commission (EC) ruled out holding fresh polls. The opposition Jatiya Oikya Front - National Unity Front (NUF) - comprising the BNP and some smaller parties, criticised the EC and accused its chief of being biased.

Journalist arrested in Bangladesh for 'false' reporting on voting irregularities

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secured a third consecutive term as the country's premiere on Sunday -- a win that wasn't just predictable but also in favour of India's vision of fostering ties with the South Asian nation.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's socio-economic development flourished a great deal under Hasina's decade-long rule and so was the case with the deepening relationship with neighbouring India.&nbsp;

PM Hasina's continuance in power is strategically important for India as her definitive stand on Islamic fundamentalists and extremists echoes with India's security interests.

PM Hasina's leadership has also maintained a sensitive stance toward India’s concerns about the northeast militancy fostered by ISI-backed Islamists operating from Bangladesh during the opposition BNP-Jamaat regime. With PM Hasina assuming power a decade ago, a serious crackdown was initiated which led to a considerable reduction of militancy in Northeastern states like Tripura and Meghalaya.&nbsp;

High-level visits from both sides led to steady growth in the Indo-Bangladesh ties. Last year, the two countries launched a series of developmental projects while complicated issues of land and coastal boundaries were resolved.

The construction of the Akhaura-Agartala rail line and the restoration of the Kulaura-Shahbazpur section of railway line were the highlights among all initiatives jointly taken by PM Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart in 2018.

The two countries also inaugurated the construction of a 130-km Bangladesh-India Friendship Pipeline between Siliguri in West Bengal and Parbatipur in Dinajpur. However, the issue of Teesta water sharing issue remained unresolved.

But China's play in&nbsp;South Asia's political dynamics cannot be ruled out. China is Bangladesh’s major trading partner and the latter is one of the important determinants in former's key Belt and Road plan.&nbsp;

Earlier last month, a Chinese-Bangladeshi joint venture signed a deal with the Bangladeshi government to build a mega expressway. The project has been pegged as Bangladesh's first major public-private partnership (PPP) initiative aimed at boosting the nation's economic and infrastructural development and promote employment, a Chinese media report stated.&nbsp;

With PM Hasina in for another term, political analysts and experts predict India-Bangladesh ties to further flourish. However, the immediate task at hand for New Delhi is to keep Dhaka away from making any binary choices, especially with China's growing power and influence in South Asia.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secured a third consecutive term as the country's premiere on Sunday -- a win that wasn't just predictable but also in favour of India's vision of fostering ties with the South Asian nation.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secured a third consecutive term as the country's premiere on Sunday -- a win that wasn't just predictable but also in favour of India's vision of fostering ties with the South Asian nation. Bangladesh's socio-economic development flourished a great deal under Hasina's decade-long rule and so was the case with the deepening relationship with neighbouring India. PM Hasina's continuance in power is strategically important for India as her definitive stand on Islamic fundamentalists and extremists echoes with India's security interests. PM Hasina's leadership has also maintained a sensitive stance toward India’s concerns about the northeast militancy fostered by ISI-backed Islamists operating from Bangladesh during the opposition BNP-Jamaat regime. With PM Hasina assuming power a decade ago, a serious crackdown was initiated which led to a considerable reduction of militancy in Northeastern states like Tripura and Meghalaya. High-level visits from both sides led to steady growth in the Indo-Bangladesh ties. Last year, the two countries launched a series of developmental projects while complicated issues of land and coastal boundaries were resolved. The construction of the Akhaura-Agartala rail line and the restoration of the Kulaura-Shahbazpur section of railway line were the highlights among all initiatives jointly taken by PM Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart in 2018. The two countries also inaugurated the construction of a 130-km Bangladesh-India Friendship Pipeline between Siliguri in West Bengal and Parbatipur in Dinajpur. However, the issue of Teesta water sharing issue remained unresolved. But China's play in South Asia's political dynamics cannot be ruled out. China is Bangladesh’s major trading partner and the latter is one of the important determinants in former's key Belt and Road plan. Earlier last month, a Chinese-Bangladeshi joint venture signed a deal with the Bangladeshi government to build a mega expressway. The project has been pegged as Bangladesh's first major public-private partnership (PPP) initiative aimed at boosting the nation's economic and infrastructural development and promote employment, a Chinese media report stated. With PM Hasina in for another term, political analysts and experts predict India-Bangladesh ties to further flourish. However, the immediate task at hand for New Delhi is to keep Dhaka away from making any binary choices, especially with China's growing power and influence in South Asia. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

With eye on China, New Delhi needs to keep Dhaka away from making binary choices

Awami League Chief Sheikh Hasina on Monday said that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led Jatiya Oikya Front (National Unity Front) lost the 11th General Elections of the country as the alliance was indulging in "criminal activities".

While speaking to journalists and foreign observers at her 'Ganabhaban' residence, Hasina said that the opposition alliance won fewer seats in the polls as they did not nominate eligible candidates, according to Bangladeshi media reports.

Hasina's Awami League-led Grand Alliance, which includes 14 parties in total, won 288 seats out of 300 seats, while the Bangladesh Nationalist Party BNP helmed Jatiya Oikya Front"&gt;Jatiya Oikya Front suffered a massive rout by bagging only seven seats in total, according to The Daily Star.

She said that the people of Bangladesh have reposed their faith in the Awami League and voted for the party again because of various development works carried out by her government.

Responding to allegations of rigging and ballot stuffing, Hasina said that she advocated for a transparent manner of voting as the people would feel free to exercise their franchise.

Polling for the 11th General Elections began at early morning on Sunday at around 8 am and continued till 4 pm in the evening.

Despite tight security arrangements, violence was reported from various pockets of Bangladesh claiming 18 lives in total and injuring around 200 people.&nbsp; 
Moreover, nine people were arrested in poll-related violence from across the nation.

As the counting process was underway on Sunday and showed Hasina's party leading the way, the Jatiya Oikya Front called the polls a "farce", alleging that it was completely rigged, demanding re-election.&nbsp;

However, the Bangladesh Election Commission rejected their claims, ruling out any chance of re-election. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Awami League Chief Sheikh Hasina on Monday said that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led Jatiya Oikya Front (National Unity Front) lost the 11th General Elections of the country as the alliance was indulging in "criminal activities".

Awami League Chief Sheikh Hasina on Monday said that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led Jatiya Oikya Front (National Unity Front) lost the 11th General Elections of the country as the alliance was indulging in "criminal activities". While speaking to journalists and foreign observers at her 'Ganabhaban' residence, Hasina said that the opposition alliance won fewer seats in the polls as they did not nominate eligible candidates, according to Bangladeshi media reports. Hasina's Awami League-led Grand Alliance, which includes 14 parties in total, won 288 seats out of 300 seats, while the Bangladesh Nationalist Party BNP helmed Jatiya Oikya Front">Jatiya Oikya Front suffered a massive rout by bagging only seven seats in total, according to The Daily Star. She said that the people of Bangladesh have reposed their faith in the Awami League and voted for the party again because of various development works carried out by her government. Responding to allegations of rigging and ballot stuffing, Hasina said that she advocated for a transparent manner of voting as the people would feel free to exercise their franchise. Polling for the 11th General Elections began at early morning on Sunday at around 8 am and continued till 4 pm in the evening. Despite tight security arrangements, violence was reported from various pockets of Bangladesh claiming 18 lives in total and injuring around 200 people. Moreover, nine people were arrested in poll-related violence from across the nation. As the counting process was underway on Sunday and showed Hasina's party leading the way, the Jatiya Oikya Front called the polls a "farce", alleging that it was completely rigged, demanding re-election. However, the Bangladesh Election Commission rejected their claims, ruling out any chance of re-election.

National Unity Front lost due to 'criminal activities': Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina

Bangladesh Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sheikh-hasina-growth-oriented-iron-lady-for-some-authoritarian-for-others-187519">Sheikh Hasina</a> on Monday rejected opposition complaints of vote rigging and said people had gone to the polls enthusiastically in a largely peacefully general election that her ruling alliance swept with a landslide.

Hasina <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-hasinas-party-registers-landslide-victory-in-parliamentary-polls-187416">won a third straight term in Sunday's election</a>, with alliance led by her Awami League winning 287 of the 298 seats for which results had been declared, the Election Commission said.

But the opposition rejected the result and called for a fresh vote, complaining of what it said was widespread rigging.

Hasina dismissed complaints of cheating and the chief election commissioner rejected the opposition demand for a re-run of the vote. He said voting had been held in a peaceful manner.

Also, Bangladesh’s chief election commissioner rejected the opposition demand for a fresh election.

“It is not possible to hold a fresh election as the election was held in a peaceful manner,” the commissioner, K M Nurul Huda said.

At least 17 people were killed during the vote, police said, after a violent campaign in which the opposition alleged the government denied it a level playing field.

Hasina's win follows a decade in power in which she has been credited with improving the economy and promoting development, while being accused of rights abuses, a crackdown on media and suppressing dissent.

The government rejects those accusations.

The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which had boycotted the last general election in 2014 saying it would not be fair, won just six seats in the 300-seat assembly this time.

BNP leader Khaleda Zia – Hasina's arch rival and a former prime minister - was jailed in February on corruption charges she says were politically motivated. This was the first election in which the BNP campaigned without her.

Hasina told reporters the opposition had done badly in the election as it lacked leadership. She also said she was surprised the opposition had not campaigned more actively.

The rivalry between the two women - both related to former leaders - has largely defined Bangladeshi politics for decades.

Raising minimum wages for workers in Bangladesh's robust garments industry, the world's second-biggest after China's, could be one of Hasina's first tasks, party leaders have said.

Opposition leader Kamal Hossain earlier said their alliance, the National Unity Front, led by the BNP, had called on the Election Commission to order a fresh vote under a neutral administration "as soon as possible", saying the vote was flawed.

"We've had bad elections in the past but I must say that it is unprecedented how bad this particular election was," 82-year-old Hossain told Reuters late on Sunday.

Candidates reported witnessing ballot-stuffing and vote-rigging by ruling party activists, who also barred opposition polling agents from voting centres, Hossain said.

"The minimum requirements of free and fair election are absent," he said.

Hasina won a third straight term in Sunday's election, with alliance led by her Awami League winning 287 of the 298 seats for which results had been declared, the Election Commission said.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday rejected opposition complaints of vote rigging and said people had gone to the polls enthusiastically in a largely peacefully general election that her ruling alliance swept with a landslide. Hasina won a third straight term in Sunday's election, with alliance led by her Awami League winning 287 of the 298 seats for which results had been declared, the Election Commission said. But the opposition rejected the result and called for a fresh vote, complaining of what it said was widespread rigging. Hasina dismissed complaints of cheating and the chief election commissioner rejected the opposition demand for a re-run of the vote. He said voting had been held in a peaceful manner. Also, Bangladesh’s chief election commissioner rejected the opposition demand for a fresh election. “It is not possible to hold a fresh election as the election was held in a peaceful manner,” the commissioner, K M Nurul Huda said. At least 17 people were killed during the vote, police said, after a violent campaign in which the opposition alleged the government denied it a level playing field. Hasina's win follows a decade in power in which she has been credited with improving the economy and promoting development, while being accused of rights abuses, a crackdown on media and suppressing dissent. The government rejects those accusations. The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which had boycotted the last general election in 2014 saying it would not be fair, won just six seats in the 300-seat assembly this time. BNP leader Khaleda Zia – Hasina's arch rival and a former prime minister - was jailed in February on corruption charges she says were politically motivated. This was the first election in which the BNP campaigned without her. Hasina told reporters the opposition had done badly in the election as it lacked leadership. She also said she was surprised the opposition had not campaigned more actively. The rivalry between the two women - both related to former leaders - has largely defined Bangladeshi politics for decades. Raising minimum wages for workers in Bangladesh's robust garments industry, the world's second-biggest after China's, could be one of Hasina's first tasks, party leaders have said. Opposition leader Kamal Hossain earlier said their alliance, the National Unity Front, led by the BNP, had called on the Election Commission to order a fresh vote under a neutral administration "as soon as possible", saying the vote was flawed. "We've had bad elections in the past but I must say that it is unprecedented how bad this particular election was," 82-year-old Hossain told Reuters late on Sunday. Candidates reported witnessing ballot-stuffing and vote-rigging by ruling party activists, who also barred opposition polling agents from voting centres, Hossain said. "The minimum requirements of free and fair election are absent," he said.

Bangladesh polls: Voting held in peaceful manner, says PM Hasina as election commission rejects call for re-poll

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/2019-lok-sabha-polls-will-be-janta-versus-gathbandhan-pm-modi-187752">2019 Lok Sabha polls will be 'Janata versus Gathbandhan': PM Modi</a>

The 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be a "public versus coalition" contest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday while ridiculing the alliance proposed to be formed by anti-BJP parties.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-technical-snag-in-pumps-hinder-rescue-operations-187708">Meghalaya miners rescue: Technical snag in pumps hinder rescue operations</a>

The multi-agency operation to rescue the miners trapped in a flooded quarry in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district was hindered after the high-powered pumps encountered technical snags on Tuesday, officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/atf-price-cut-by-147-costs-less-than-petrol-diesel-187734">ATF price cut by 14.7%; costs less than petrol, diesel</a>

Jet fuel price Tuesday was cut by a record 14.7 per cent on the back of decline in international rates, making it cheaper than both petrol and diesel.

The price of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) -- used to power airplanes -- was slashed by Rs 9,990 per kilolitre, or 14.7 per cent, to Rs 58,060.97 per kl, according to price notification issued by state-owned oil firms.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-will-be-everyones-premier-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasina-187730">I will be everyone's premier, first priority to continue economic reforms: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina</a>

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that she will be the "premier of all" Bangladeshis and her government's first priority would be to continue the economic reforms.

Prime Minister Hasina's Awami League and its allies won a landslide victory in the general elections on Sunday, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/surgical-strikes-decision-was-a-big-risk-but-i-was-more-concerned-about-safety-of-soldiers-pm-modi-187741">Surgical strikes decision was a 'big risk' but I was more concerned about </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/surgical-strikes-decision-was-a-big-risk-but-i-was-more-concerned-about-safety-of-soldiers-pm-modi-187741">safety</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/surgical-strikes-decision-was-a-big-risk-but-i-was-more-concerned-about-safety-of-soldiers-pm-modi-187741"> of soldiers: PM Modi</a>

"Come back before sunrise, irrespective of the success or failure of the mission". This was the message of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Indian Army Special Forces' commandos who went across the Line of Control (LoC) on September 28, 2016 to carry out surgical strikes at terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

2019 Lok Sabha polls will be 'Janata versus Gathbandhan': PM Modi The 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be a "public versus coalition" contest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday while ridiculing the alliance proposed to be formed by anti-BJP parties.

2019 Lok Sabha polls will be 'Janata versus Gathbandhan': PM Modi The 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be a "public versus coalition" contest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday while ridiculing the alliance proposed to be formed by anti-BJP parties. Meghalaya miners rescue: Technical snag in pumps hinder rescue operations The multi-agency operation to rescue the miners trapped in a flooded quarry in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district was hindered after the high-powered pumps encountered technical snags on Tuesday, officials said. ATF price cut by 14.7%; costs less than petrol, diesel Jet fuel price Tuesday was cut by a record 14.7 per cent on the back of decline in international rates, making it cheaper than both petrol and diesel. The price of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) -- used to power airplanes -- was slashed by Rs 9,990 per kilolitre, or 14.7 per cent, to Rs 58,060.97 per kl, according to price notification issued by state-owned oil firms. I will be everyone's premier, first priority to continue economic reforms: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that she will be the "premier of all" Bangladeshis and her government's first priority would be to continue the economic reforms. Prime Minister Hasina's Awami League and its allies won a landslide victory in the general elections on Sunday, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls. Surgical strikes decision was a 'big risk' but I was more concerned about safety of soldiers: PM Modi "Come back before sunrise, irrespective of the success or failure of the mission". This was the message of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Indian Army Special Forces' commandos who went across the Line of Control (LoC) on September 28, 2016 to carry out surgical strikes at terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/jatiya-oikya-front-lost-due-to-criminal-activities-sheikh-hasina-187627">newly elected Bangladesh lawmakers</a> will be sworn in on January 3 at the Jatiya Sangsad here.

The Parliament Secretariat confirmed the news on Tuesday, reports The Daily Star. The exact time of the swearing-in has not been announced yet.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), whose alliance secured only seven seats during Sunday's Presidential elections, has refused to take part in the oath-taking.

The 11th parliamentary elections were held in Bangladesh on December 30, amid violence that claimed the lives of 19 people across the nation.

The Awami League-led Grand Alliance secured a landslide victory, winning a massive 288 seats. The President of the Bangladesh Awami League party, Sheikh Hasina, is also the current Prime Minister of Bangladesh and it will be her third term in office when sworn-in.

The new government will be formed by January 28, which is also the day that the current government`s term ends.&nbsp;

The newly elected Bangladesh lawmakers will be sworn in on January 3 at the Jatiya Sangsad here. The Parliament Secretariat confirmed the news on Tuesday, reports The Daily Star.

The newly elected Bangladesh lawmakers will be sworn in on January 3 at the Jatiya Sangsad here. The Parliament Secretariat confirmed the news on Tuesday, reports The Daily Star. The exact time of the swearing-in has not been announced yet. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), whose alliance secured only seven seats during Sunday's Presidential elections, has refused to take part in the oath-taking. The 11th parliamentary elections were held in Bangladesh on December 30, amid violence that claimed the lives of 19 people across the nation. The Awami League-led Grand Alliance secured a landslide victory, winning a massive 288 seats. The President of the Bangladesh Awami League party, Sheikh Hasina, is also the current Prime Minister of Bangladesh and it will be her third term in office when sworn-in. The new government will be formed by January 28, which is also the day that the current government`s term ends.

Bangladesh: Lawmakers to be sworn in on January 3

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election. Bangladesh's Election Commission confirmed a third successive term for Hasina on Monday announcing results&nbsp;on 298 seats; election was cancelled in one seat.&nbsp;

According to official EC figures, Hasina's Awami League-led alliance bagged a total of&nbsp;288 seats, registering a landslide win.&nbsp;Jatiya Oikya Front settled with&nbsp;7 seats, rest three went to others.&nbsp;Jatiya Oikya Front&nbsp;is a political alliance of primarily four parties led by opposition leader Kamal Hossain.

The Election Commission confirmed the complete result of the constituency in southwestern Gopalganj from where Hasina won bagging 2,29,539 votes, while her BNP opponent got only 123 votes.

Bangladesh went to polls on December 30 in a tense vote that saw at least 17 people killed in poll-related violence and demands of a fresh election by the Opposition.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's opposition NUF alliance, with BNP as its key partner, rejected the outcome of the general election and demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government, news agency PTI reported.

"We reject the results and demand a new election under a neutral government," NUF convenor and veteran lawyer Kamal Hossain, who heads the Gono Forum party, told reporters.

"We ask that you cancel this election right away," Hossain urged the Election Commission, claiming, "we have reports that fraudulence took place in almost all centres".

The National Unity Front (NUF) is a coalition of parties, including BNP, Gono Forum, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal-JSD, Nagorik Oikya and Krishak Sramik Janata League.

Over <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-deploys-600000-security-forces-ahead-of-elections-187152">600,000 security personnel</a> including several thousand soldiers and paramilitary border guards were deployed across the nation for the election in which 10.41 crore people were eligible to vote.

The voting started at 8 AM and ended at 4 PM.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/more-than-1800-candidates-in-fray-over-10-crore-to-vote-in-bangladeshs-11th-parliamentary-elections-on-sunday-187182">After 10 years</a>, 39 registered political parties participated in Bangladesh's general polls. Over 1,800 candidates contested in 299 out of 300 parliamentary constituencies.&nbsp;As many as 40,183 polling centres and 207,312 polling booths were set up.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election. Bangladesh's Election Commission confirmed a third successive term for Hasina on Monday announcing results on 298 seats; election was cancelled in one seat.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election. Bangladesh's Election Commission confirmed a third successive term for Hasina on Monday announcing results on 298 seats; election was cancelled in one seat. According to official EC figures, Hasina's Awami League-led alliance bagged a total of 288 seats, registering a landslide win. Jatiya Oikya Front settled with 7 seats, rest three went to others. Jatiya Oikya Front is a political alliance of primarily four parties led by opposition leader Kamal Hossain. The Election Commission confirmed the complete result of the constituency in southwestern Gopalganj from where Hasina won bagging 2,29,539 votes, while her BNP opponent got only 123 votes. Bangladesh went to polls on December 30 in a tense vote that saw at least 17 people killed in poll-related violence and demands of a fresh election by the Opposition. Bangladesh's opposition NUF alliance, with BNP as its key partner, rejected the outcome of the general election and demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government, news agency PTI reported. "We reject the results and demand a new election under a neutral government," NUF convenor and veteran lawyer Kamal Hossain, who heads the Gono Forum party, told reporters. "We ask that you cancel this election right away," Hossain urged the Election Commission, claiming, "we have reports that fraudulence took place in almost all centres". The National Unity Front (NUF) is a coalition of parties, including BNP, Gono Forum, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal-JSD, Nagorik Oikya and Krishak Sramik Janata League. Over 600,000 security personnel including several thousand soldiers and paramilitary border guards were deployed across the nation for the election in which 10.41 crore people were eligible to vote. The voting started at 8 AM and ended at 4 PM. After 10 years, 39 registered political parties participated in Bangladesh's general polls. Over 1,800 candidates contested in 299 out of 300 parliamentary constituencies. As many as 40,183 polling centres and 207,312 polling booths were set up. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh PM Hasina's party registers landslide victory in parliamentary polls

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-hasinas-party-registers-landslide-victory-in-parliamentary-polls-187416">Bangladesh PM Hasina's party registers landslide victory in parliamentary polls</a>

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election, news agency AFP reported citing local media reports.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vows-to-destroy-is-before-leaving-syria-says-top-republican-187411">Trump vows to 'destroy' IS before leaving Syria, says top Republican</a>

Senior Republican senator Lindsey Graham said Sunday that President Donald Trump had promised to stay in Syria to finish the job of destroying the Islamic State group -- just days after announcing he would be withdrawing troops immediately.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1984-riots-case-sajjan-kumar-likely-to-surrender-today-187418">1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Sajjan Kumar likely to surrender today</a>

The 73-year-old Congress leader, Sajjan Kumar, who was awarded life sentenced by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, is expected to surrender before Karkardooma Court or Tihar jail authorities on Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-bill-to-be-tabled-in-rajya-sabha-today-187412">Triple Talaq bill to be tabled in Rajya Sabha today</a>

The&nbsp;Triple Talaq Bill&nbsp;that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, is set to be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Monday by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fuel-prices-continue-to-fall-petrol-at-rs-6884-in-delhi-and-rs-7447-in-mumbai-187417">Fuel prices continue to fall; petrol at Rs 68.84 in Delhi and Rs 74.47 in Mumbai</a>

Fuel prices in the country continued to witness a slump on Monday with petrol selling at Rs 68.84 per litre in the national capital and for Rs 74.47 per litre in Mumbai.

Bangladesh PM Hasina's party registers landslide victory in parliamentary polls Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election, news agency AFP reported citing local media reports.

Bangladesh PM Hasina's party registers landslide victory in parliamentary polls Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election, news agency AFP reported citing local media reports. Trump vows to 'destroy' IS before leaving Syria, says top Republican Senior Republican senator Lindsey Graham said Sunday that President Donald Trump had promised to stay in Syria to finish the job of destroying the Islamic State group -- just days after announcing he would be withdrawing troops immediately. 1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Sajjan Kumar likely to surrender today The 73-year-old Congress leader, Sajjan Kumar, who was awarded life sentenced by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, is expected to surrender before Karkardooma Court or Tihar jail authorities on Monday. Triple Talaq bill to be tabled in Rajya Sabha today The Triple Talaq Bill that makes the practice of instant divorce among Muslims a criminal offence with a provision of three-year jail term for the erring husband, is set to be tabled in Rajya Sabha on Monday by Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. Fuel prices continue to fall; petrol at Rs 68.84 in Delhi and Rs 74.47 in Mumbai Fuel prices in the country continued to witness a slump on Monday with petrol selling at Rs 68.84 per litre in the national capital and for Rs 74.47 per litre in Mumbai.

India has welcomed the successful completion of the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi was the first world leader to congratulate Hasina. A Ministry of External Affairs release said PM Modi telephoned Hasina &amp; conveyed "his heartiest congratulations on the decisive results of the election."&nbsp;

PM expressed his "confidence that the partnership between India and Bangladesh will continue to flourish under her far-sighted leadership" &amp; "reiterated the priority India attaches to Bangladesh as a neighbour, a close partner for regional development, security and cooperation, and a central pillar in India’s Neighbourhood First policy."&nbsp;

PM Sheikh Hasina thanked India for their "consistent and generous support which has benefited Bangladesh’s development, and appreciated PM’s reiteration of this commitment."&nbsp;

The Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamta Banerjee also congratulated Hasina and tweeted in Bengali "Heartiest congratulations to Sheikh Hasina Ji on the victory in the Bangladesh General Election".

The election is expected to continue the momentum in India Bangla ties. There have been regular high-level visits and exchanges between the two countries in the past few years with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina visiting India from April 7-10, 2017. The Indian Prime minister Modi had then broken the protocol to receive Hasina at the airport. Prior to this visit, PM Hasina had visited India on October 16-17, 2016 to participate in the BRICS-BIMSTEC Outreach Summit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a State visit to Bangladesh from June 6-7, 2015 during which New Delhi and Dhaka exchanged of the historic instrument of ratification for India-Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement (LBA).

Indian Prime Minister Modi also met Bangladesh PM in 2018 for an informal summit in Kolkatta during which Bangladesh Bhawan was inaugurated at Visva Bharati.

In 2015, under the Hasina govt, Bangladeshi govt handed over Anup Chetia, the General Secretary of banned United Liberation Front of Assam to India. Indian govt has extended 3 Lines of Credits to Bangladesh in the last 7 years amounting to US$ 8 billion making Dhaka the largest recipient of LOC funds from India till date. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Chinese President has also congratulated Prime Minister Hasina with Chinese Ambassador in Bangladesh Zhang Zuo handing over the congratulatory message personally. Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and PM Lotay Tshering have also sent congratulatory messages.&nbsp;

Pakistan was mum by the time this copy went to print. The relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh haven't been good with Dhaka not accepting Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Shiek Hasina won a landslide victory with Awami league led alliance getting 288 seats out of 298 seats. Awami league itself got 259 seats. BNP — Bangladesh Nationalist Party-led alliance got just 7 seats.

 
After the victory, Sheikh Hasina said the victory is nothing for her for personal gains, rather it is a great responsibility towards the country and its people".&nbsp;

Awami league and Opposition BNP have been hitting out at each other since the results have been announced. Kamal Hossain, of the National Unity front alliance, speaking to WION, called for the cancellation of &nbsp;"the elections and hold a fresh election under an acceptable administration" while Sheikh Hasina's advisor Gowher Rizvi said, "These are allegations. allegations unless verified, substantiated. They are baseless. Irrelevant. Let us stick to facts".

Many reports of BNP's link with Pakistani spy agency ISI came to fore ahead of the elections on December 30.

India has welcomed the successful completion of the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling Sheikh Hasina. Prime Minister Modi was the first world leader to congratulate Hasina.

India has welcomed the successful completion of the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling Sheikh Hasina. Prime Minister Modi was the first world leader to congratulate Hasina. A Ministry of External Affairs release said PM Modi telephoned Hasina & conveyed "his heartiest congratulations on the decisive results of the election." PM expressed his "confidence that the partnership between India and Bangladesh will continue to flourish under her far-sighted leadership" & "reiterated the priority India attaches to Bangladesh as a neighbour, a close partner for regional development, security and cooperation, and a central pillar in India’s Neighbourhood First policy." PM Sheikh Hasina thanked India for their "consistent and generous support which has benefited Bangladesh’s development, and appreciated PM’s reiteration of this commitment." The Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamta Banerjee also congratulated Hasina and tweeted in Bengali "Heartiest congratulations to Sheikh Hasina Ji on the victory in the Bangladesh General Election". The election is expected to continue the momentum in India Bangla ties. There have been regular high-level visits and exchanges between the two countries in the past few years with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina visiting India from April 7-10, 2017. The Indian Prime minister Modi had then broken the protocol to receive Hasina at the airport. Prior to this visit, PM Hasina had visited India on October 16-17, 2016 to participate in the BRICS-BIMSTEC Outreach Summit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a State visit to Bangladesh from June 6-7, 2015 during which New Delhi and Dhaka exchanged of the historic instrument of ratification for India-Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement (LBA). Indian Prime Minister Modi also met Bangladesh PM in 2018 for an informal summit in Kolkatta during which Bangladesh Bhawan was inaugurated at Visva Bharati. In 2015, under the Hasina govt, Bangladeshi govt handed over Anup Chetia, the General Secretary of banned United Liberation Front of Assam to India. Indian govt has extended 3 Lines of Credits to Bangladesh in the last 7 years amounting to US$ 8 billion making Dhaka the largest recipient of LOC funds from India till date. Chinese President has also congratulated Prime Minister Hasina with Chinese Ambassador in Bangladesh Zhang Zuo handing over the congratulatory message personally. Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and PM Lotay Tshering have also sent congratulatory messages. Pakistan was mum by the time this copy went to print. The relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh haven't been good with Dhaka not accepting Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh. Prime Minister Shiek Hasina won a landslide victory with Awami league led alliance getting 288 seats out of 298 seats. Awami league itself got 259 seats. BNP — Bangladesh Nationalist Party-led alliance got just 7 seats. After the victory, Sheikh Hasina said the victory is nothing for her for personal gains, rather it is a great responsibility towards the country and its people". Awami league and Opposition BNP have been hitting out at each other since the results have been announced. Kamal Hossain, of the National Unity front alliance, speaking to WION, called for the cancellation of "the elections and hold a fresh election under an acceptable administration" while Sheikh Hasina's advisor Gowher Rizvi said, "These are allegations. allegations unless verified, substantiated. They are baseless. Irrelevant. Let us stick to facts". Many reports of BNP's link with Pakistani spy agency ISI came to fore ahead of the elections on December 30.

India, China congratulate Sheikh Hasina on her victory in Bangladesh elections

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553">Bangladesh polls: Voting held in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553">peaceful</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553"> manner, says PM Hasina as election commission rejects </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553">call</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553"> for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-held-in-peaceful-manner-says-sheikh-hasina-supporting-ec-rejecting-vote-rigging-complaints-187553">re poll</a>

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday rejected opposition complaints of vote rigging and said people had gone to the polls enthusiastically in a largely peacefully general election that her ruling alliance swept with a landslide.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-diplomats-harassed-after-being-questioned-on-road-now-electricity-cut-for-4-hours-in-peak-winter-187521">Indian diplomats harassed: After being questioned on road, now electricity cut for 4 hours in peak winter</a>

After being questioned on the road for 30 minutes in Peshawar by Pakistani security agencies, another incident of harassment of Indian diplomats in Pakistan has come to fore.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1984-anti-sikh-riots-case-ex-congress-leader-sajjan-kumar-surrenders-before-delhis-karkardooma-court-187501">1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Ex-Congress leader Sajjan Kumar surrenders in Delhi court, to be lodged in Mandoli jail</a>

Former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar on Monday surrendered before a court here to serve the life sentence awarded to him by the Delhi High Court in connection with a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/4-dead-dozens-missing-after-gas-explosion-hits-russia-high-rise-187531">4 dead, dozens missing after gas explosion hits Russia high-rise</a>

Four people were killed and nearly 70 unaccounted for after a gas explosion tore through a residential building in Russia on Monday, leaving hundreds without a home in freezing temperatures on New Year's Eve.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/smriti-mandhana-wins-icc-womens-cricketer-of-the-year-187494">India's Smriti Mandhana wins ICC women's cricketer and ODI player of the year</a>

India's vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has won the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for the ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year and also named as ICC Women's ODI Player of the Year.&nbsp;

Bangladesh polls: Voting held in peaceful manner, says PM Hasina as election commission rejects call for re poll Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday rejected opposition complaints of vote rigging and said people had gone to the polls enthusiastically in a largely peacefully general election that her ruling alliance swept with a landslide.

Bangladesh polls: Voting held in peaceful manner, says PM Hasina as election commission rejects call for re poll Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday rejected opposition complaints of vote rigging and said people had gone to the polls enthusiastically in a largely peacefully general election that her ruling alliance swept with a landslide. Indian diplomats harassed: After being questioned on road, now electricity cut for 4 hours in peak winter After being questioned on the road for 30 minutes in Peshawar by Pakistani security agencies, another incident of harassment of Indian diplomats in Pakistan has come to fore. 1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Ex-Congress leader Sajjan Kumar surrenders in Delhi court, to be lodged in Mandoli jail Former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar on Monday surrendered before a court here to serve the life sentence awarded to him by the Delhi High Court in connection with a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. 4 dead, dozens missing after gas explosion hits Russia high-rise Four people were killed and nearly 70 unaccounted for after a gas explosion tore through a residential building in Russia on Monday, leaving hundreds without a home in freezing temperatures on New Year's Eve. India's Smriti Mandhana wins ICC women's cricketer and ODI player of the year India's vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has won the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Award for the ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year and also named as ICC Women's ODI Player of the Year.

Bangladesh's iron lady<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-hasinas-party-registers-landslide-victory-in-parliamentary-polls-187416"> Sheikh Hasina, who won a historic fourth term as prime minister </a>becoming the country's longest-serving leader, is credited by her supporters for the Muslim-majority nation's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dhaka-residents-hope-for-development-after-sheikh-hasina-election-win-187457">impressive economic growth</a>, but her opponents see her as an authoritarian who stifled the Opposition.

Hasina, the daughter of Bangladesh's founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won the 11th parliamentary elections with a landslide victory even as the Opposition rejected the "farcical" polls marred with violence that claimed 18 lives, making it one of the deadliest polls in the country.

The 71-year-old chief of the Awami League was pitted against a united opposition Jatiya Oikya Front (United National Front) led by octogenarian Kamal Hossain, an Oxford-educated jurist and former foreign minister.

Her arch-rival ex-premier and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief Khalida Zia, who has been serving a 17-year sentence for corruption, was barred from contesting the polls.

Born on September 28, 1947 at her parental home of Tungipara in northern Bangladesh (then East Pakistan), Hasina is the eldest among the five children of Rahman, the first president of Bangladesh.

Hasina married nuclear scientist M A Wazed Miah in 1968. Her husband died in 2009. They have one son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and one daughter, Saima Wazed Hossain Putul.&nbsp;

Though she took active interest in politics throughout her student life, Hasina formally joined the Awami League as its leader following the tragic assassination of Rahman, his wife and three sons in 1975.

While living in self-exile with her husband in India, Hasina was elected the president of the Awami League in 1981, and since then she has been the president of the party.

Ending six years in exile, she returned home on May 17, 1981. In 1983, Hasina formed an alliance to oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad.&nbsp;

Hasina joined forces with Zia's BNP to help oust the military dictator in 1990 but the two soon fell out and their rivalry is popularly known as the "Battle of Begums".

Hasina and Zia, the 73-year-old widow of military dictator Ziaur Rahman, share a long and bitter rivalry and have alternated in power for most of the past 28 years.&nbsp;

Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 after defeating her arch-rival Zia, who eventually regained power in 2001.

She was the first democratically elected prime minister of the country to complete the term.&nbsp;

In 2008, Hasina returned as the prime minister with a landslide victory. In January 2014, she became the prime minister for a third term in an unopposed election as BNP boycotted the polls.

She has been in power ever since, presiding over economic expansion of more than six per cent every year since 2009.&nbsp;

Since she took power in 2008, Bangladesh's per capita income has seen a threefold increase. The country's gross domestic product (GDP) stood at USD 250 billion in 2017 and it clocked a growth rate of 7.28 percent last year. 
 
The garment industry has emerged as one of the main pillars of the economy, providing jobs to 4.5 million people.&nbsp;

Hasina has been praised by her supporters for cracking down on Islamist extremists after five homegrown terrorists stormed a Dhaka cafe in 2016, killing 20 hostages, including one Indian.

She also launched trials of the powerful Islamist opposition over crimes committed during the 1971 independence war.&nbsp;

Her critics, however, have described her as an authoritarian since she pushed on with an uncontested general election in 2014.

Her opponents accuse her of crushing the opposition and creating a one-party dominant political system in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Hasina will serve as the prime minister for the fourth term - a record for any Bangladeshi leader since the country came into existence in 1971.&nbsp;

Hasina, the daughter of Bangladesh's founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won the 11th parliamentary elections with a landslide victory.

Bangladesh's iron lady Sheikh Hasina, who won a historic fourth term as prime minister becoming the country's longest-serving leader, is credited by her supporters for the Muslim-majority nation's impressive economic growth, but her opponents see her as an authoritarian who stifled the Opposition. Hasina, the daughter of Bangladesh's founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won the 11th parliamentary elections with a landslide victory even as the Opposition rejected the "farcical" polls marred with violence that claimed 18 lives, making it one of the deadliest polls in the country. The 71-year-old chief of the Awami League was pitted against a united opposition Jatiya Oikya Front (United National Front) led by octogenarian Kamal Hossain, an Oxford-educated jurist and former foreign minister. Her arch-rival ex-premier and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief Khalida Zia, who has been serving a 17-year sentence for corruption, was barred from contesting the polls. Born on September 28, 1947 at her parental home of Tungipara in northern Bangladesh (then East Pakistan), Hasina is the eldest among the five children of Rahman, the first president of Bangladesh. Hasina married nuclear scientist M A Wazed Miah in 1968. Her husband died in 2009. They have one son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and one daughter, Saima Wazed Hossain Putul. Though she took active interest in politics throughout her student life, Hasina formally joined the Awami League as its leader following the tragic assassination of Rahman, his wife and three sons in 1975. While living in self-exile with her husband in India, Hasina was elected the president of the Awami League in 1981, and since then she has been the president of the party. Ending six years in exile, she returned home on May 17, 1981. In 1983, Hasina formed an alliance to oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad. Hasina joined forces with Zia's BNP to help oust the military dictator in 1990 but the two soon fell out and their rivalry is popularly known as the "Battle of Begums". Hasina and Zia, the 73-year-old widow of military dictator Ziaur Rahman, share a long and bitter rivalry and have alternated in power for most of the past 28 years. Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 after defeating her arch-rival Zia, who eventually regained power in 2001. She was the first democratically elected prime minister of the country to complete the term. In 2008, Hasina returned as the prime minister with a landslide victory. In January 2014, she became the prime minister for a third term in an unopposed election as BNP boycotted the polls. She has been in power ever since, presiding over economic expansion of more than six per cent every year since 2009. Since she took power in 2008, Bangladesh's per capita income has seen a threefold increase. The country's gross domestic product (GDP) stood at USD 250 billion in 2017 and it clocked a growth rate of 7.28 percent last year. The garment industry has emerged as one of the main pillars of the economy, providing jobs to 4.5 million people. Hasina has been praised by her supporters for cracking down on Islamist extremists after five homegrown terrorists stormed a Dhaka cafe in 2016, killing 20 hostages, including one Indian. She also launched trials of the powerful Islamist opposition over crimes committed during the 1971 independence war. Her critics, however, have described her as an authoritarian since she pushed on with an uncontested general election in 2014. Her opponents accuse her of crushing the opposition and creating a one-party dominant political system in Bangladesh. Hasina will serve as the prime minister for the fourth term - a record for any Bangladeshi leader since the country came into existence in 1971.

Sheikh Hasina: Growth-oriented 'iron lady' for some, 'authoritarian' for others

In pics: Bangladesh PM Hasina wins third straight term despite vote-rigging claims

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-hasinas-party-registers-landslide-victory-in-parliamentary-polls-187416">winning a third consecutive term</a> in the parliamentary elections.&nbsp;

PM Modi reiterated India's continued commitment to work together for Bangladesh's development and the strengthening of the bilateral relations.

PM Sheikh Hasina thanked PM Modi for being the first leader to call her to convey congratulations. She also thanked India for consistent and generous support which has benefited Bangladesh’s development and appreciated PM’s reiteration of this commitment, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"Spoke to Sheikh Hasina Ji and congratulated her on a resounding victory in Bangladesh elections. Wished her very best for tenure ahead," PM Modi tweeted out.

The Indian government in an official statement said that the Prime Minister, earlier in the day, telephoned his Bangladeshi counterpart on winning elections with a thumping majority.&nbsp;

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Indian Govt: PM Sheikh Hasina thanked PM Modi for being the first leader to call her to convey congratulations. She also thanked India for consistent and generous support which has benefited Bangladesh’s development, and appreciated PM’s reiteration of this commitment. <a href="https://t.co/WCgRZvyXte">https://t.co/WCgRZvyXte</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1079630856652759040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"He expressed confidence that the partnership between Indian and Bangladesh will continue to flourish under her far-sighted leadership," the statement read.

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Spoke to Sheikh Hasina Ji and congratulated her on the resounding victory in the Bangladesh elections. 
 
Wished her the very best for the tenure ahead.
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"The conversation was very cordial, fully reflecting the close and traditionally friendly relations between India and Bangladesh," the statement concluded.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election. Bangladesh's Election Commission confirmed a third successive term for Hasina on Monday announcing results on 298 seats; election was cancelled in one seat.&nbsp;

According to official EC figures, Hasina's Awami League-led alliance bagged a total of 288 seats, registering a landslide win. Jatiya Oikya Front settled with 7 seats, rest three went to others. Jatiya Oikya Front is a political alliance of primarily four parties led by opposition leader Kamal Hossain.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on winning a third consecutive term in the parliamentary elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on winning a third consecutive term in the parliamentary elections. PM Modi reiterated India's continued commitment to work together for Bangladesh's development and the strengthening of the bilateral relations. PM Sheikh Hasina thanked PM Modi for being the first leader to call her to convey congratulations. She also thanked India for consistent and generous support which has benefited Bangladesh’s development and appreciated PM’s reiteration of this commitment, news agency ANI reported. "Spoke to Sheikh Hasina Ji and congratulated her on a resounding victory in Bangladesh elections. Wished her very best for tenure ahead," PM Modi tweeted out. The Indian government in an official statement said that the Prime Minister, earlier in the day, telephoned his Bangladeshi counterpart on winning elections with a thumping majority. Indian Govt: PM Sheikh Hasina thanked PM Modi for being the first leader to call her to convey congratulations. She also thanked India for consistent and generous support which has benefited Bangladesh’s development, and appreciated PM’s reiteration of this commitment. https://t.co/WCgRZvyXte — ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2018 × "He expressed confidence that the partnership between Indian and Bangladesh will continue to flourish under her far-sighted leadership," the statement read. Spoke to Sheikh Hasina Ji and congratulated her on the resounding victory in the Bangladesh elections. Wished her the very best for the tenure ahead. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 31, 2018 × "The conversation was very cordial, fully reflecting the close and traditionally friendly relations between India and Bangladesh," the statement concluded. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party registered a landslide victory in Sunday's controversial general election. Bangladesh's Election Commission confirmed a third successive term for Hasina on Monday announcing results on 298 seats; election was cancelled in one seat. According to official EC figures, Hasina's Awami League-led alliance bagged a total of 288 seats, registering a landslide win. Jatiya Oikya Front settled with 7 seats, rest three went to others. Jatiya Oikya Front is a political alliance of primarily four parties led by opposition leader Kamal Hossain.

Our ties will continue to flourish under her leadership: PM Modi congratulates Sheikh Hasina on parliamentary win 

Dhaka residents woke up on Monday to the news of Bangladesh Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-hasinas-party-registers-landslide-victory-in-parliamentary-polls-187416">Sheikh Hasina's election victory</a> giving her a third straight term following a vote that the opposition rejected as rigged.

Local residents reading the morning newspapers said they were happy with the result and looked forward to the country further developing under Hasina's leadership.

Hasina's win consolidated her decade-long rule over Bangladesh, where she is credited with improving the economy and promoting development but has also been accused of rampant human rights abuses, a crackdown on the media and suppressing dissent. She denies such charges.

Opposition leader Kamal Hossain said their alliance, the National Unity Front led by the BNP, had called on the Election Commission to order a fresh vote under a neutral administration "as soon as possible", alleging Sunday's poll was flawed.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's alliance won Bangladesh's election with a thumping majority, giving her a third straight term following a vote that the opposition rejected as rigged.

The alliance dominated by her Awami League, seen as close to regional power India, won 287 of the 298 seats for which results have been declared, the commission said. There are 300 constituencies in the country.

The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which boycotted the last poll in 2014, won just six seats.

Raising minimum wages for workers in Bangladesh's massive garments industry, the world's second biggest after China, could be one of her first tasks after she takes office, party leaders have said. Hasina will meet foreign journalists and poll observers at her official residence later on Monday.

Dhaka residents woke up on Monday to the news of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's election victory giving her a third straight term following a vote that the opposition rejected as rigged.

Dhaka residents woke up on Monday to the news of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's election victory giving her a third straight term following a vote that the opposition rejected as rigged. Local residents reading the morning newspapers said they were happy with the result and looked forward to the country further developing under Hasina's leadership. Hasina's win consolidated her decade-long rule over Bangladesh, where she is credited with improving the economy and promoting development but has also been accused of rampant human rights abuses, a crackdown on the media and suppressing dissent. She denies such charges. Opposition leader Kamal Hossain said their alliance, the National Unity Front led by the BNP, had called on the Election Commission to order a fresh vote under a neutral administration "as soon as possible", alleging Sunday's poll was flawed. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's alliance won Bangladesh's election with a thumping majority, giving her a third straight term following a vote that the opposition rejected as rigged. The alliance dominated by her Awami League, seen as close to regional power India, won 287 of the 298 seats for which results have been declared, the commission said. There are 300 constituencies in the country. The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which boycotted the last poll in 2014, won just six seats. Raising minimum wages for workers in Bangladesh's massive garments industry, the world's second biggest after China, could be one of her first tasks after she takes office, party leaders have said. Hasina will meet foreign journalists and poll observers at her official residence later on Monday.

Dhaka residents hope for development after PM Sheikh Hasina's election win

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina appeared headed for a landslide win in a general election Sunday that was marred by clashes between rival supporters that killed 14 people and opposition claims of rigged voting.

Early results showed Hasina's Awami League racing into a clear lead, quickly securing 61 seats against one for the opposition -- some by tens of thousands of votes -- according to Channel 24, which is compiling results from around the country.

The alliance of parties running against Hasina branded the election "farcical" and urged the country's election commission to void the results.

"We are demanding that a fresh election is held under a neutral government as early as possible," Kamal Hossain, who heads the coalition, told reporters.&nbsp;

Deadly violence and bitter rivalry that marred the election campaign spilled over into voting day, even as authorities imposed tight security with 600,000 troops, police and other security forces deployed across the country.

Ten people were killed in clashes between Awami League and the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) supporters, police said, while three men were shot by police who said they were protecting polling booths.

An auxiliary police member was also killed by armed opposition activists, according to officials.

Hasina, 71, has been lauded for boosting economic growth in the poor South Asian nation during her decade in power and for welcoming Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar.

But critics accuse her of authoritarianism and crippling the opposition -- including arch-rival and BNP leader Khaleda Zia who is serving 17 years in prison on graft charges -- to cling on to power.

The BNP-led opposition alliance Sunday accused Hasina's party of using stuffed ballot boxes and other illegal means to fix the result, which was to be officially announced Monday.

BNP spokesman Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal told reporters there were "irregularities" in 221 of the 300 seats contested.

"Voters are not allowed to enter booths. Especially women voters are being forced to vote for the boat," Alal said, referring to the Awami League symbol.&nbsp;

'We'll cast your vote'

Bangladesh election commission spokesman S.M. Asaduzzaman told AFP the body had "received a few allegations of irregularities" and was investigating.

Authorities shut down high speed internet services during polling "to prevent the spread of rumours" that could trigger unrest. One independent television news channel complained that its broadcasts were blocked.&nbsp;

Voting in the capital Dhaka was largely peaceful as convoys of soldiers and paramilitary forces were on the streets where most traffic was banned.

"I have never missed voting in my life. This is probably the last election for me and I want a suitable candidate for my country," 98-year-old Abdus Salam said at a Dhaka polling station.

However voters in provincial areas reported intimidation. Atiar Rahman said he was beaten by ruling party activists in the central district of Narayanganj.

"They told me not to bother, 'We'll cast your vote on your behalf'," he told AFP.

The opposition said the unrest was stirred up to deter voters, and presiding officers reported a low turnout across the country.&nbsp;

Sunday's deaths brought to 18 the official police toll for election violence since the ballot was announced on November 8.

Police said they acted "in self-defence" in the southern town of Bashkhali, when they fired on opposition supporters who stormed a polling booth, killing one.

In a separate incident a man was shot by police after he tried to steal a ballot box.

Free and fair?

Hasina needs 151 seats to control parliament but experts say a victory would be sullied by accusations that she hamstrung opponents.

The opposition says more than 15,000 of its activists were detained during the campaign, crushing its ability to mobilise support.

Human Rights Watch and other international groups said the crackdown created a climate of fear which could prevent opposition supporters from casting ballots.

The United States raised concerns about the credibility of the election while the United Nations called for greater efforts to make the vote fair.

Seventeen opposition candidates were arrested over what they claim are trumped-up charges while another 17 were disqualified from running by courts, which Hasina's opponents say are government controlled.

The Bangladeshi leadership has alternated between Hasina and Zia, allies-turned-foes, over the last three decades.

Hasina rejects accusations of authoritarianism but analysts say she feared young voters would support the BNP.

Her government was criticised this year for its heavy handling of weeks of major student protests that brought Dhaka to a standstill.&nbsp;

Hasina, daughter of Bangladesh's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was gifted victory in the 2014 election when the BNP boycotted the vote claiming it was not free and fair.

Rights groups have since accused her administration of stifling freedom of speech by toughening a draconian anti-press law and the enforced disappearance of dissenters.

Early results showed Hasina racing into a clear lead, winning each of the first 29 seats declared -- some by tens of thousands of votes -- according to Channel 24, which is compiling results from around the country.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina appeared headed for a landslide win in a general election Sunday that was marred by clashes between rival supporters that killed 14 people and opposition claims of rigged voting. Early results showed Hasina's Awami League racing into a clear lead, quickly securing 61 seats against one for the opposition -- some by tens of thousands of votes -- according to Channel 24, which is compiling results from around the country. The alliance of parties running against Hasina branded the election "farcical" and urged the country's election commission to void the results. "We are demanding that a fresh election is held under a neutral government as early as possible," Kamal Hossain, who heads the coalition, told reporters. Deadly violence and bitter rivalry that marred the election campaign spilled over into voting day, even as authorities imposed tight security with 600,000 troops, police and other security forces deployed across the country. Ten people were killed in clashes between Awami League and the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) supporters, police said, while three men were shot by police who said they were protecting polling booths. An auxiliary police member was also killed by armed opposition activists, according to officials. Hasina, 71, has been lauded for boosting economic growth in the poor South Asian nation during her decade in power and for welcoming Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar. But critics accuse her of authoritarianism and crippling the opposition -- including arch-rival and BNP leader Khaleda Zia who is serving 17 years in prison on graft charges -- to cling on to power. The BNP-led opposition alliance Sunday accused Hasina's party of using stuffed ballot boxes and other illegal means to fix the result, which was to be officially announced Monday. BNP spokesman Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal told reporters there were "irregularities" in 221 of the 300 seats contested. "Voters are not allowed to enter booths. Especially women voters are being forced to vote for the boat," Alal said, referring to the Awami League symbol. 'We'll cast your vote' Bangladesh election commission spokesman S.M. Asaduzzaman told AFP the body had "received a few allegations of irregularities" and was investigating. Authorities shut down high speed internet services during polling "to prevent the spread of rumours" that could trigger unrest. One independent television news channel complained that its broadcasts were blocked. Voting in the capital Dhaka was largely peaceful as convoys of soldiers and paramilitary forces were on the streets where most traffic was banned. "I have never missed voting in my life. This is probably the last election for me and I want a suitable candidate for my country," 98-year-old Abdus Salam said at a Dhaka polling station. However voters in provincial areas reported intimidation. Atiar Rahman said he was beaten by ruling party activists in the central district of Narayanganj. "They told me not to bother, 'We'll cast your vote on your behalf'," he told AFP. The opposition said the unrest was stirred up to deter voters, and presiding officers reported a low turnout across the country. Sunday's deaths brought to 18 the official police toll for election violence since the ballot was announced on November 8. Police said they acted "in self-defence" in the southern town of Bashkhali, when they fired on opposition supporters who stormed a polling booth, killing one. In a separate incident a man was shot by police after he tried to steal a ballot box. Free and fair? Hasina needs 151 seats to control parliament but experts say a victory would be sullied by accusations that she hamstrung opponents. The opposition says more than 15,000 of its activists were detained during the campaign, crushing its ability to mobilise support. Human Rights Watch and other international groups said the crackdown created a climate of fear which could prevent opposition supporters from casting ballots. The United States raised concerns about the credibility of the election while the United Nations called for greater efforts to make the vote fair. Seventeen opposition candidates were arrested over what they claim are trumped-up charges while another 17 were disqualified from running by courts, which Hasina's opponents say are government controlled. The Bangladeshi leadership has alternated between Hasina and Zia, allies-turned-foes, over the last three decades. Hasina rejects accusations of authoritarianism but analysts say she feared young voters would support the BNP. Her government was criticised this year for its heavy handling of weeks of major student protests that brought Dhaka to a standstill. Hasina, daughter of Bangladesh's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was gifted victory in the 2014 election when the BNP boycotted the vote claiming it was not free and fair. Rights groups have since accused her administration of stifling freedom of speech by toughening a draconian anti-press law and the enforced disappearance of dissenters.

Bangladesh election: Early poll result shows Hasina heading for landslide win

The initial trends of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-bangladesh-some-voters-allege-being-barred-from-polling-booths-187366">election results</a> which remained marred by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-probes-vote-rigging-allegations-in-election-hit-by-violence-187362">violent clashes</a> claiming 18 lives show that Awami League party president and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/for-bangladesh-pm-authoritarian-tag-is-badge-of-honour-son-says-on-poll-eve-187239">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina</a> is all set to be back with a fourth term.&nbsp;

Voting for the 299 of the total 300 seats was held on Sunday between 8 am and 4 pm. Counting of votes began immediately after the polling ended.&nbsp;

Initial trends indicated a landslide victory for the Awami League and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina returning to power.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Hasina had said that she was confident of winning this election.&nbsp;

“We are confident that we will win this election. Opposition parties resorted to violence and we have lost a lot of our party supporters. But, whatever the decision of the people, we will respect it. Whether we win or not, we will always work towards the development of the nation,” Hasina told reporters after casting her vote at Dhaka’s City College.&nbsp;

<img alt="bangladesh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13fd31e3-c81e-4703-8c1d-dfbca784987a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bangladesh%20voting.JPG" />

Law enforcement officials are seen on duty outside a voting centre during the general election in Dhaka, Bangladesh, December 30, 2018. ( Reuters Photo)

Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed echoed the words of his mothers and urged young voters to turn up in huge numbers. “We are confident that we are going to win. BNP-Jamaat has resorted to violence and killed our party supporters,” said Wazed.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the Jatiya Oikya Front or the National United Front lead by Dr Kamal Hossain called the election a ‘farce’ and demanded repolling.&nbsp;

“What we witnessed today was nothing but a farce. We demand cancellation of elections and repolls under a caretaker government. It’s unfortunate that in the 47th year of independence we are seeing an election like this. It’s even more unfortunate that I’m alive to see this kind of elections,” said Hossain.&nbsp;

Opposition parties cried foul and alleged that the ballot boxes were stuffed overnight and booths were captured by the ruling party cadres.&nbsp;

However, the chief election commissioner, Nurul Huda went on record to call the elections as ‘peaceful’ and ‘fair’.&nbsp;

While the capital city of Dhaka mostly remained peaceful, sporadic cases of violence were reported from other parts of Bangladesh.&nbsp;

As many as 18 people lost their lives, a majority of them were Awami League leaders and supporters.&nbsp;

Two innocent voters were caught in a crossfire and suffered bullet injuries. Hours later, both the civilians succumbed to their injuries.

The initial trends of the election results which remained marred by violent clashes claiming 18 lives show that Awami League party president and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is all set to be back with a fourth term.

The initial trends of the election results which remained marred by violent clashes claiming 18 lives show that Awami League party president and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is all set to be back with a fourth term. Voting for the 299 of the total 300 seats was held on Sunday between 8 am and 4 pm. Counting of votes began immediately after the polling ended. Initial trends indicated a landslide victory for the Awami League and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina returning to power. Earlier in the day, Hasina had said that she was confident of winning this election. “We are confident that we will win this election. Opposition parties resorted to violence and we have lost a lot of our party supporters. But, whatever the decision of the people, we will respect it. Whether we win or not, we will always work towards the development of the nation,” Hasina told reporters after casting her vote at Dhaka’s City College. Law enforcement officials are seen on duty outside a voting centre during the general election in Dhaka, Bangladesh, December 30, 2018. ( Reuters Photo) Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed echoed the words of his mothers and urged young voters to turn up in huge numbers. “We are confident that we are going to win. BNP-Jamaat has resorted to violence and killed our party supporters,” said Wazed. On the other hand, the Jatiya Oikya Front or the National United Front lead by Dr Kamal Hossain called the election a ‘farce’ and demanded repolling. “What we witnessed today was nothing but a farce. We demand cancellation of elections and repolls under a caretaker government. It’s unfortunate that in the 47th year of independence we are seeing an election like this. It’s even more unfortunate that I’m alive to see this kind of elections,” said Hossain. Opposition parties cried foul and alleged that the ballot boxes were stuffed overnight and booths were captured by the ruling party cadres. However, the chief election commissioner, Nurul Huda went on record to call the elections as ‘peaceful’ and ‘fair’. While the capital city of Dhaka mostly remained peaceful, sporadic cases of violence were reported from other parts of Bangladesh. As many as 18 people lost their lives, a majority of them were Awami League leaders and supporters. Two innocent voters were caught in a crossfire and suffered bullet injuries. Hours later, both the civilians succumbed to their injuries.

Bangladesh elections: PM Hasina set to win record fourth term; opposition rejects polls, demands fresh vote

Bangladesh's premier and ruling party leaders have attacked the opposition in the bitter campaign for Sunday's general election by relying on references to the country's 1971 war for independence from Pakistan.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman won the country that independence, and her Awami League party has run a campaign on reminding the public of "war criminals", "fake freedom fighters" and "collaborators".

It has also sought to paint the entire opposition as an "anti-liberation" front.

"Do you want to vote for betrayers?" Hasina, who is seeking a third consecutive term, said at a public speech this month, referring to Jamaat-e-Islami, an Islamist group that opposed the independence movement and several of whose members have been sentenced to death or life in prison for war crimes.

She says the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is also culpable due to its traditional ties with Jamaat.

In the election, the BNP – in disarray following the jailing of its leader and former prime minister Khaleda Zia for alleged corruption - has joined smaller parties to form the National Unity Front alliance, headed by secular leader Kamal Hossain. The BNP did not contest the 2014 election, saying it would not have been fair.

Hossain, an 82-year-old Oxford-educated international jurist and close ally of Hasina's father in freedom struggle, has not been spared the attacks.

In a recent interview, Hasina's political adviser HT Imam questioned Hossain's role in the independence struggle and said it would be an "exaggeration" to call him a freedom fighter. He said he did not question Hossain's patriotism, but argued that "the way that he is portrayed as a significant freedom fighter is very wrong." Hasina has separately accused Hossain of "joining hands with war criminals and terrorists."

In a country that won independence only 47 years ago, memories of the nine-month-long Liberation War that claimed the lives of many thousands of people are still fresh in the minds of the older generation, making it a poignant campaign tool.

But it is used so frequently that it has often dominated the campaign, taking the spotlight away from civic issues, such as jobs, wages, and road safety, let alone any discussion of alleged human rights abuses under the government.

"The freedom movement is a convenient excuse to peddle. It's not just about whether you are in league with the Jamaat or not," said CR Abrar, a professor of international relations at the University of Dhaka.

&nbsp;"The independence struggle was also about equality, justice, and human rights. Where is the conversation on that?"

Hasina's government has been accused of extrajudicial killings, rampant arrests of critics and opposition workers, and curbs on the media – charges the government denies. The opposition alliance has vowed to reduce controls and "restore democracy" in Bangladesh, while also promising to retain a war crimes tribunal set up under Hasina.

Weeks before elections, a tense 'docudrama' on Hasina's life released in cinemas in Bangladesh depicted how most of her family, including her father who is known in the country as the Father of the Nation, was assassinated in 1975 in an army coup while she was away with her sister in Germany. Hasina refers to the BNP as thugs in the film.

Whether the war rhetoric will work is yet to be seen. Millions of new voters - many under 25 - are registered for Sunday's polls, which will be the country's first fully competitive election in a decade. Some Awami League leaders said the party's campaign was also focused on educating that young generation about the war.

"Now, the younger generation is getting a sense of what the history is about," historian and writer Syed Badrul Ahsan said.

Bangladesh's premier and ruling party leaders have attacked the opposition in the bitter campaign for Sunday's general election by relying on references to the country's 1971 war for independence from Pakistan.

Bangladesh's premier and ruling party leaders have attacked the opposition in the bitter campaign for Sunday's general election by relying on references to the country's 1971 war for independence from Pakistan. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman won the country that independence, and her Awami League party has run a campaign on reminding the public of "war criminals", "fake freedom fighters" and "collaborators". It has also sought to paint the entire opposition as an "anti-liberation" front. "Do you want to vote for betrayers?" Hasina, who is seeking a third consecutive term, said at a public speech this month, referring to Jamaat-e-Islami, an Islamist group that opposed the independence movement and several of whose members have been sentenced to death or life in prison for war crimes. She says the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is also culpable due to its traditional ties with Jamaat. In the election, the BNP – in disarray following the jailing of its leader and former prime minister Khaleda Zia for alleged corruption - has joined smaller parties to form the National Unity Front alliance, headed by secular leader Kamal Hossain. The BNP did not contest the 2014 election, saying it would not have been fair. Hossain, an 82-year-old Oxford-educated international jurist and close ally of Hasina's father in freedom struggle, has not been spared the attacks. In a recent interview, Hasina's political adviser HT Imam questioned Hossain's role in the independence struggle and said it would be an "exaggeration" to call him a freedom fighter. He said he did not question Hossain's patriotism, but argued that "the way that he is portrayed as a significant freedom fighter is very wrong." Hasina has separately accused Hossain of "joining hands with war criminals and terrorists." In a country that won independence only 47 years ago, memories of the nine-month-long Liberation War that claimed the lives of many thousands of people are still fresh in the minds of the older generation, making it a poignant campaign tool. But it is used so frequently that it has often dominated the campaign, taking the spotlight away from civic issues, such as jobs, wages, and road safety, let alone any discussion of alleged human rights abuses under the government. "The freedom movement is a convenient excuse to peddle. It's not just about whether you are in league with the Jamaat or not," said CR Abrar, a professor of international relations at the University of Dhaka. "The independence struggle was also about equality, justice, and human rights. Where is the conversation on that?" Hasina's government has been accused of extrajudicial killings, rampant arrests of critics and opposition workers, and curbs on the media – charges the government denies. The opposition alliance has vowed to reduce controls and "restore democracy" in Bangladesh, while also promising to retain a war crimes tribunal set up under Hasina. Weeks before elections, a tense 'docudrama' on Hasina's life released in cinemas in Bangladesh depicted how most of her family, including her father who is known in the country as the Father of the Nation, was assassinated in 1975 in an army coup while she was away with her sister in Germany. Hasina refers to the BNP as thugs in the film. Whether the war rhetoric will work is yet to be seen. Millions of new voters - many under 25 - are registered for Sunday's polls, which will be the country's first fully competitive election in a decade. Some Awami League leaders said the party's campaign was also focused on educating that young generation about the war. "Now, the younger generation is getting a sense of what the history is about," historian and writer Syed Badrul Ahsan said.

In Bangladesh, a 47-year-old war dominates election campaign rhetoric

Bangladesh polls: Opposition leader Kamal Hossian calls for fresh vote

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-probes-vote-rigging-allegations-in-election-hit-by-violence-187362">Bangladesh Sunday deployed </a>electronic voting machines for the first time in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/polls-close-in-bangladesh-election-marred-by-violence-12-dead-187346">a general election</a>, though only on a limited scale, a move which received mixed responses from the voters amid reports of glitches in some booths.

Out of the 299 parliamentary constituencies that went to polls, six saw the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs), a regular feature in neighbouring India since decades ago.

Voting for the 11th national election began with the machines being used in the six seats selected through a lottery. These are Dhaka-6, Dhaka-13, Chattogram-9, Rangpur-3, Khulna-2 and Satkhira-2. The six seats comprise over 2.1 million voters. The results from these six seats could be announced within hours after the voting ends, Bangladeshi media&nbsp;reported.

Electronic voting machines created problems across different voting centres in Dhaka-13 and Dhaka-6, slowing down voting process and leading to long queues, the Daily Star newspaper reported.

Voters in some areas have reported facing trouble when the machines could not recognise their fingerprints, BDnews24.Com reported.

Dhaka-13 voter Jagat Dashi Mondol, a septuagenarian, was smiling as she came out of the polling centre at Mohammadpur's Borabo Government Primary School.

When asked about how she felt using an EVM, said, "easy, very easy."

The polling centre's Presiding Officer Jayanta Chandra Deb said he replaced three EVMs when they stopped working.

Nazrul Islam, a retired engineer, said his fingerprint was not matching when he went to vote at the polling centre in Lalmatia Mohila College.

"But I got to vote using my voter ID. It didn't take much time."

Gazi Hossain, a former librarian of Lalmatia Mohila College, was unhappy with the EVM because of the time wasted in trying to match his fingerprint in the machine. "It wasn't matching, so it took more time, that's a problem," he said.

Bimal Chandra, a retired teacher, voted using EVM at the Mohammadpur Chand Community Centre.

"I just pressed two buttons on the EVM. One on the poll symbol, then another on a green button. It takes roughly ten seconds. It takes more time to be marked on the thumb with ink.

"It takes just 20 minutes to count the votes from EVM centres. This is good," said Chandra.

On December 27, the Election Commission organised mock voting at selected polling centres to educate voters on how to use EVMs.

The EVM technology is being used for the first time at the national election level, eight years after being introduced in local government elections in the country.

The machines were first used in the Chittagong City Corporation election of June 2010. However, the Election Commission stopped using the technology in 2015 due to some errors. The machines were later reintroduced in the Rangpur City Corporation election in 2016.

During this year's city corporation polls, EVMs were used in three polling centres in Khulna City Corporation with 10,000 voters; two centres in Sylhet City Corporation with 5,413 voters; 11 centres in Barishal City Corporation with 25,000 voters; and two centres in Rajshahi City Corporation with 3,383 voters, the Daily Star reported.

During the Election Commission's electoral dialogues, most of the 40 registered parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party of former premier Khalida Zia and its allies, opposed the idea of using EVMs in the election.

However, five political parties, including the ruling Awami League of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, its allies Workers Party of Bangladesh, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal faction led by Hasanul Haq Inu and Bangladesher Samyabadi Dal (M-L) and Zaker Party supported the use of EVMs.

The BNP has all along been opposing the EC move, alleging that this might facilitate "the government's plan for election engineering".

The Bangladesh Machine Tools Factory (BMTF) imported parts of the EVMs and assembled them in Bangladesh ahead of the general election, media reports said.

"The EVM fingerprint scanner will be imported from America while Apple will supply the monitors. Other parts of the EVM machine will be imported from different countries," the Dhaka Tribune quoted Brig Gen Mohammad Saidul Islam, director general of the Election Commission's National Identity Registration Wing, as saying in September.&nbsp;

Out of the 299 parliamentary constituencies that went to polls, six saw the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs), a regular feature in neighbouring India since decades ago.

Bangladesh Sunday deployed electronic voting machines for the first time in a general election, though only on a limited scale, a move which received mixed responses from the voters amid reports of glitches in some booths. Out of the 299 parliamentary constituencies that went to polls, six saw the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs), a regular feature in neighbouring India since decades ago. Voting for the 11th national election began with the machines being used in the six seats selected through a lottery. These are Dhaka-6, Dhaka-13, Chattogram-9, Rangpur-3, Khulna-2 and Satkhira-2. The six seats comprise over 2.1 million voters. The results from these six seats could be announced within hours after the voting ends, Bangladeshi media reported. Electronic voting machines created problems across different voting centres in Dhaka-13 and Dhaka-6, slowing down voting process and leading to long queues, the Daily Star newspaper reported. Voters in some areas have reported facing trouble when the machines could not recognise their fingerprints, BDnews24.Com reported. Dhaka-13 voter Jagat Dashi Mondol, a septuagenarian, was smiling as she came out of the polling centre at Mohammadpur's Borabo Government Primary School. When asked about how she felt using an EVM, said, "easy, very easy." The polling centre's Presiding Officer Jayanta Chandra Deb said he replaced three EVMs when they stopped working. Nazrul Islam, a retired engineer, said his fingerprint was not matching when he went to vote at the polling centre in Lalmatia Mohila College. "But I got to vote using my voter ID. It didn't take much time." Gazi Hossain, a former librarian of Lalmatia Mohila College, was unhappy with the EVM because of the time wasted in trying to match his fingerprint in the machine. "It wasn't matching, so it took more time, that's a problem," he said. Bimal Chandra, a retired teacher, voted using EVM at the Mohammadpur Chand Community Centre. "I just pressed two buttons on the EVM. One on the poll symbol, then another on a green button. It takes roughly ten seconds. It takes more time to be marked on the thumb with ink. "It takes just 20 minutes to count the votes from EVM centres. This is good," said Chandra. On December 27, the Election Commission organised mock voting at selected polling centres to educate voters on how to use EVMs. The EVM technology is being used for the first time at the national election level, eight years after being introduced in local government elections in the country. The machines were first used in the Chittagong City Corporation election of June 2010. However, the Election Commission stopped using the technology in 2015 due to some errors. The machines were later reintroduced in the Rangpur City Corporation election in 2016. During this year's city corporation polls, EVMs were used in three polling centres in Khulna City Corporation with 10,000 voters; two centres in Sylhet City Corporation with 5,413 voters; 11 centres in Barishal City Corporation with 25,000 voters; and two centres in Rajshahi City Corporation with 3,383 voters, the Daily Star reported. During the Election Commission's electoral dialogues, most of the 40 registered parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party of former premier Khalida Zia and its allies, opposed the idea of using EVMs in the election. However, five political parties, including the ruling Awami League of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, its allies Workers Party of Bangladesh, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal faction led by Hasanul Haq Inu and Bangladesher Samyabadi Dal (M-L) and Zaker Party supported the use of EVMs. The BNP has all along been opposing the EC move, alleging that this might facilitate "the government's plan for election engineering". The Bangladesh Machine Tools Factory (BMTF) imported parts of the EVMs and assembled them in Bangladesh ahead of the general election, media reports said. "The EVM fingerprint scanner will be imported from America while Apple will supply the monitors. Other parts of the EVM machine will be imported from different countries," the Dhaka Tribune quoted Brig Gen Mohammad Saidul Islam, director general of the Election Commission's National Identity Registration Wing, as saying in September.

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Bangladesh's Election Commission is investigating allegations of vote rigging coming from across the country on Sunday, a spokesman told Reuters, as polling for a general election marred by violence drew to a close.

Clashes between supporters of the ruling Awami League and its opponents have killed at least 12 and wounded more than 20, police said.

The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) said one of its candidates from Dhaka was stabbed while he was moving around in his constituency. Police said the circumstances of the attack on Salahuddin Ahmed were not yet clear.

The Election Commission said it would act if rigging was confirmed in the first fully competitive general election in a decade.

"Allegations are coming from across the country and those are under investigation," commission spokesman SM&nbsp;Asaduzzaman said. "If we get any confirmation from our own channels then measures will be taken as per rules".

Reuters reporters across the country of 165 million people saw sparse turnout at polling booths during the election, widely expected to be won by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, giving her a third straight term in office.

Mobile internet was blocked and the streets of the capital were largely deserted as many had left to vote in their hometowns. In nine polling centres, Reuters reporters visited in Dhaka, posters bearing the Awami League's "boat" symbol far outnumbered those of the opposition.

Mahbub Talukdar, one of the five election commissioners who stirred controversy last week by saying there was no level playing field for the parties, told Reuters he did not see any opposition polling agents near the Dhaka booth where he voted, suggesting they had been kept away.

"I am receiving similar complaints from across the country on phone, but what can I do alone?" he said.

The clashes in the Muslim-majority country broke out between workers of the Awami League and its opponents, led by the BNP of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. At least one of the victims was attacked by a machete-carrying group, police said, adding a man from a paramilitary auxiliary force also died.

Alleging vote manipulation, at least six candidates fighting against the Awami League withdrew from the contest in Khulna, a divisional headquarters 300 km (186 miles) southwest of Dhaka.

Rasel, a 34-year-old voter in the southeastern district of Chittagong, said he saw police and some Awami League workers he knew stopping people from entering one polling centre.

"They told me that 'voting is going on nicely, you don’t need to go inside'. If you try to enter, you will be in trouble'," Rasel, who declined to give his second name fearing reprisals, told Reuters by phone.

The local electoral officer said he had investigated the incident and "found long queue in these centres and people were casting votes with a festive mood". The Awami League said opposition supporters were wrongly accusing the party.

"Bangladesh TV channels showing peaceful elections, few isolated incidents," Hasina's son and Awami League member Sajeeb Wazed said on Twitter. "Yet opposition increase false allegations of irregularities. Trying controversy as opinion polls show a landslide for the governing party."

Hasina confident

The BNP boycotted the last election in 2014 claiming it wouldn't be free and fair. The party has been hobbled by the absence of Khaleda, 74, who has been in jail since February on corruption charges which she says are politically motivated.

Hasina and Khaleda have alternated in power for most of the last three decades and this is the first election the BNP has contested without its leader.

It stitched together the National Unity Front alliance with smaller parties, but has alleged its supporters and candidates faced attacks and intimidation, including shootings and arrests, at the hands of ruling party activists during campaigning. Some BNP leaders and a European diplomat said they feared the election would be rigged.

Hasina's party dismissed the opposition charges, citing "one false allegation after another for months prior to election as polls show a landslide victory" for the ruling party.

"I believe that people will cast their votes in favour of Awami League to continue the pace of development," Hasina told reporters in Dhaka. "The 'boat' will surely win. I believe in democracy and I have confidence in the people of my country."

But opposition leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said a win for his side is "inevitable if the election is free and fair".

Hasina has already invited foreign journalists and poll observers to her official residence on Monday, by which time the election result will be known. There are 300 parliamentary constituencies.

Under Hasina, the country's $280 billion economy grew 7.8 per cent in the 2017/18 financial year that ended on June 30, compared with 5.1 per cent when Hasina took over in 2008/09.

Over the same period, annual sales of its economic mainstay, the garment industry, nearly tripled, with garment exports worth $30.6 billion in 2017/18, making up 83.5 percent of total exports. One of Hasina's top jobs if she retains power will be to address demands by garment workers for a higher minimum wage.

At a polling booth in old Dhaka on Sunday, some were afraid to comment on the polls, describing an atmosphere of fear.

A middle-aged businessman who declined to be named said: "I am here to vote, but my family says, 'what's the point?' The ruling party will come back in power in any case."

Hasina has been praised internationally for providing refuge to Rohingya Muslims fleeing Myanmar, but her government is accused of suppressing dissent and jailing critics.

Hasina has faced accusations in the West of increasing authoritarianism. Her son, Wazed, told Reuters Hasina regarded such accusations as a "badge of honour".

"This is an important election, but the condition is not peaceful in the country," said Monir, a teacher at a madrassa. "The opposition has not been able to exercise its responsibilities properly. They are afraid."

Bangladesh's Election Commission is investigating allegations of vote rigging coming from across the country on Sunday, a spokesman told Reuters, as polling for a general election marred by violence drew to a close.

Bangladesh's Election Commission is investigating allegations of vote rigging coming from across the country on Sunday, a spokesman told Reuters, as polling for a general election marred by violence drew to a close. Clashes between supporters of the ruling Awami League and its opponents have killed at least 12 and wounded more than 20, police said. The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) said one of its candidates from Dhaka was stabbed while he was moving around in his constituency. Police said the circumstances of the attack on Salahuddin Ahmed were not yet clear. The Election Commission said it would act if rigging was confirmed in the first fully competitive general election in a decade. "Allegations are coming from across the country and those are under investigation," commission spokesman SM Asaduzzaman said. "If we get any confirmation from our own channels then measures will be taken as per rules". Reuters reporters across the country of 165 million people saw sparse turnout at polling booths during the election, widely expected to be won by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, giving her a third straight term in office. Mobile internet was blocked and the streets of the capital were largely deserted as many had left to vote in their hometowns. In nine polling centres, Reuters reporters visited in Dhaka, posters bearing the Awami League's "boat" symbol far outnumbered those of the opposition. Mahbub Talukdar, one of the five election commissioners who stirred controversy last week by saying there was no level playing field for the parties, told Reuters he did not see any opposition polling agents near the Dhaka booth where he voted, suggesting they had been kept away. "I am receiving similar complaints from across the country on phone, but what can I do alone?" he said. The clashes in the Muslim-majority country broke out between workers of the Awami League and its opponents, led by the BNP of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. At least one of the victims was attacked by a machete-carrying group, police said, adding a man from a paramilitary auxiliary force also died. Alleging vote manipulation, at least six candidates fighting against the Awami League withdrew from the contest in Khulna, a divisional headquarters 300 km (186 miles) southwest of Dhaka. Rasel, a 34-year-old voter in the southeastern district of Chittagong, said he saw police and some Awami League workers he knew stopping people from entering one polling centre. "They told me that 'voting is going on nicely, you don’t need to go inside'. If you try to enter, you will be in trouble'," Rasel, who declined to give his second name fearing reprisals, told Reuters by phone. The local electoral officer said he had investigated the incident and "found long queue in these centres and people were casting votes with a festive mood". The Awami League said opposition supporters were wrongly accusing the party. "Bangladesh TV channels showing peaceful elections, few isolated incidents," Hasina's son and Awami League member Sajeeb Wazed said on Twitter. "Yet opposition increase false allegations of irregularities. Trying controversy as opinion polls show a landslide for the governing party." Hasina confident The BNP boycotted the last election in 2014 claiming it wouldn't be free and fair. The party has been hobbled by the absence of Khaleda, 74, who has been in jail since February on corruption charges which she says are politically motivated. Hasina and Khaleda have alternated in power for most of the last three decades and this is the first election the BNP has contested without its leader. It stitched together the National Unity Front alliance with smaller parties, but has alleged its supporters and candidates faced attacks and intimidation, including shootings and arrests, at the hands of ruling party activists during campaigning. Some BNP leaders and a European diplomat said they feared the election would be rigged. Hasina's party dismissed the opposition charges, citing "one false allegation after another for months prior to election as polls show a landslide victory" for the ruling party. "I believe that people will cast their votes in favour of Awami League to continue the pace of development," Hasina told reporters in Dhaka. "The 'boat' will surely win. I believe in democracy and I have confidence in the people of my country." But opposition leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said a win for his side is "inevitable if the election is free and fair". Hasina has already invited foreign journalists and poll observers to her official residence on Monday, by which time the election result will be known. There are 300 parliamentary constituencies. Under Hasina, the country's $280 billion economy grew 7.8 per cent in the 2017/18 financial year that ended on June 30, compared with 5.1 per cent when Hasina took over in 2008/09. Over the same period, annual sales of its economic mainstay, the garment industry, nearly tripled, with garment exports worth $30.6 billion in 2017/18, making up 83.5 percent of total exports. One of Hasina's top jobs if she retains power will be to address demands by garment workers for a higher minimum wage. At a polling booth in old Dhaka on Sunday, some were afraid to comment on the polls, describing an atmosphere of fear. A middle-aged businessman who declined to be named said: "I am here to vote, but my family says, 'what's the point?' The ruling party will come back in power in any case." Hasina has been praised internationally for providing refuge to Rohingya Muslims fleeing Myanmar, but her government is accused of suppressing dissent and jailing critics. Hasina has faced accusations in the West of increasing authoritarianism. Her son, Wazed, told Reuters Hasina regarded such accusations as a "badge of honour". "This is an important election, but the condition is not peaceful in the country," said Monir, a teacher at a madrassa. "The opposition has not been able to exercise its responsibilities properly. They are afraid."

Bangladesh probes vote rigging allegations in election hit by violence

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