Voting becomes an occasion for nostalgia

For many, voting day was not just about civic duty – it was a journey back in time.

“We used to play right here. That building over there was our home. So many new structures have sprung up now. It is been ages since I last came here to cast my vote,” recalled Dr Imtiaz Yunus after casting his ballot at Banglabazar Govt Girls’ High School centre in the capital on Thursday morning.

Standing in the familiar schoolyard, he appeared visibly moved. As he waited for his family members, his sister pointed toward a relative’s nearby house, remarking how the once-bright paint had faded with time. Another family member reflected on the changing landscape, lamenting that the lush greenery of their childhood had given way to rows of concrete high-rises.

“We live in Gulshan now, so we rarely visit this neighbourhood,” Imtiaz Yunus told the Daily Sun. “After 17 long years, I am finally exercising my franchise here again.” 

“Being back evokes so many childhood memories; I used to play in this very field every day. It feels significant to finally be able to exercise my civic right after such a long hiatus,” he added.

Nearby, a man in his 60s shared a similar sense of fulfilment after casting his vote. “I am relieved beyond words to have lived long enough to cast my vote for the Sheaf of Paddy once more. I have no further regrets,” he said with emotion. 

A visit to several polling centres in the Dhaka-6 and Dhaka-8 constituencies revealed a festive and enthusiastic atmosphere. Voters gathered in large numbers, many accompanied by friends and family members.

There was little sign of apprehension. Instead, first-time voters were seen arriving in groups, encouraging others to join in the democratic process. The mood in many centres resembled a community celebration rather than a tense political event. 

DMP’s Mounted Unit on patrol

To ensure a celebratory yet secure environment, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) deployed its “Mounted Unit.” At approximately 9:25am, a unit was spotted stationed in front of the Osmani Memorial Auditorium.

The horses were adorned with decorative covers bearing slogans such as "Police are with the people, vote safely," and "Let the election be a festive and joyful occasion."

According to DMP sources, four such units have been deployed across four designated routes to maintain vigil during the polls.