Dhaka, Feb. 9 -- The Election Commission (EC) has promised to exempt journalists from the ban on mobile phone use at polling centres during the parliamentary polls scheduled for Feb 12.

The Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy (RFED) after meeting the EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said the assurance was given to them at a meeting at the Nirbachan Bhaban in Agargaon on Monday.

RFED President Kazi Jebel said they strongly condemned the ban on mobile phone use at polling centres, warning that the decision could raise questions about election transparency and hinder journalists from carrying out their duties.

"A mobile phone is an indispensable tool for journalists," he said.

"The Election Commission has assured us of steps to exempt jo...