Dhaka, July 23 -- The Election Commission (EC) has drafted a new code of conduct for Union Parishad elections, proposing a raft of changes, including restrictions on the use of microphones, a ban on collecting voters' NID cards and mobile phone numbers aiming to influence votes, tighter rules on AI-generated campaign content and higher penalties for electoral misconduct.

The proposed code prohibits the use of microphones and other sound-amplifying devices before 12:00pm and after sunset in any election area, replacing the existing campaign hours of 2:00pm to 8:00pm.

The EC has updated the code following amendments to the Local Government (Union Parishad) Act, 2009, under which Union Parishad elections will be held on a non-partisan basi...