The Election Commission (EC) has introduced a new policy providing financial assistance to officers and employees engaged in election and voter registration activities who are killed, injured, or become ill while performing their duties.

Under the policy, families of election personnel who die as a result of an accident or attack while on duty will receive a maximum grant of Tk 10 lakh.

According to the policy signed by EC Deputy Secretary Rashedul Islam, officers or employees who suffer permanent disability due to serious injuries sustained in an accident or attack will be eligible for a grant of up to Tk 4 lakh. Those who suffer temporary disability due to serious injuries will receive up to Tk 2 lakh, while those sustaining general injuries will be entitled to a maximum of Tk 50,000.

The policy also includes provisions for assistance in cases of illness while on duty. Families of personnel who die from sudden illness during duty will receive a maximum grant of Tk 6 lakh. Those who become permanently disabled due to serious illness will be eligible for up to Tk 3 lakh, while a maximum of Tk 50,000 will be provided for temporary illness.

In addition, the policy allows for a grant of up to Tk 3 lakh to cover hospitalization and costly medical treatment incurred while on duty. For general medical treatment, assistance of up to Tk 2 lakh may be provided.

To receive the financial assistance, the affected individual or the family of a deceased employee must submit an application in the prescribed format. The application will be reviewed by the relevant committee before being forwarded to the Commission for approval. Funds will be disbursed following the Commission’s authorization.

Election Commission officials said the new policy addresses a long-standing gap, as no comprehensive framework previously existed for providing such assistance. They noted that the policy clearly outlines the eligibility criteria, approval process, and distribution of grants among beneficiaries, which is expected to reduce confusion and administrative complications in the future.