A special information service has been launched through National Helpline 333 to provide citizens with verified election-related information ahead of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad Election and Referendum-2026.
A press release from the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology confirmed the matter on Wednesday.
The service has been introduced in collaboration with the Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) to ensure accurate and reliable information for voters in the run-up to the polls scheduled for February 12.
The initiative aims to make the electoral process more transparent, participatory and citizen-friendly, the release said.
Citizens can receive necessary election-related information and assistance by calling the toll-free number 333 from any mobile operator in the country and pressing 9.
Under the service, voters can learn about voting rules and procedures, locations of polling stations, issues related to national identity (NID) cards, the election code of conduct, voting rules for expatriate voters, and special facilities for persons with disabilities, elderly voters and women. Emergency instructions and important contact numbers are also available.
In addition, detailed guidance is being provided on the use of the Smart Election Management BD and Postal Vote BD apps prescribed by the Election Commission.
Launched on a pilot basis on January 16, the service has already provided information and assistance to 1,643 citizens, the release said.
The authorities are also considering using option 9 of 333 as a supportive tool to receive information related to law and order, identify potential unrest in advance and promptly inform the relevant authorities.
However, the service will not operate as a police control room. Instead, it will function as an "Information Intake, Early Warning and Forwarding System," with relevant information forwarded to 999 or concerned authorities when necessary.
The national helpline service is expected to play an effective role in preventing confusion, rumours and misinformation related to the elections and contribute to ensuring a transparent, peaceful and participatory polling process, the release added.
NSA
