EC to Implement High Court Order Over Nusrat

The Election Commission (EC) has decided to implement the High Court's order regarding the acceptance of the nomination paper of NCP leader Nusrat Tabassum for the reserved women's seats.

However, the Returning Officer concerned said stated that they have not yet received the written copy of the court order.

Joint Secretary Md. Moin Uddin Khan, the Returning Officer for the 13th National Parliament's reserved women's seat elections, shared this information to journalists, on Tuesday.

According to the Returning Officer, "The written order of the court has not yet reached our hands. It is not possible to formally initiate any proceedings until the written order is received."

He added that they would verify what is stated in the court order and take necessary measures according to the legal process, considering the context of the ruling.

"The EC will take the necessary steps in accordance with the High Court's order. There is no plan to appeal this decision," stated Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud.

In his view, "We are aware that Nusrat Tabassum’s nomination paper was submitted. However, according to the information received from the Returning Officer, it was noted that she submitted her nomination 19 minutes past the scheduled deadline. This was also mentioned in the receipt note."

"But we have not yet received the written order from the court. Once the order is in hand, it will be scrutinized, and subsequent actions will be taken," Commissioner Masud added.

Another NCP candidate, Monira Sharmin, has indicated she will also seek legal redress. When asked what the commission would do if the court ruled in her favor as well, Abdur Rahmanel Masud said if multiple orders are issued or a complex situation arises, decisions will be made by coordinating according to the law and considering the context of those orders. He pointed out that it is not possible to say anything specific on the matter beforehand.